I think most Americans would agree that voting is the bedrock of democracy. Unfortunately, the SAVE act – (H.R. 22), which narrowly passed the House and will be headed for the Senate soon is voter suppression on steroids. Republicans have learned that women, minorities, the disabled and the elderly are more likely to vote Democrat. Therefore, instead of designing a platform that would help their constituents, they are designing laws that make it more difficult for these groups to vote.

First of all, the SAVE act is completely unnecessary because federal law is clear that only U.S. citizens are permitted to vote in federal and state elections. Please do your own research, but I’m sure you will find that voter fraud is extremely rare. Ask yourself why a noncitizen would risk steep fines, prison time or deportation – just to vote in a presidential election.

The SAVE ACT would force every voter to present proof of citizenship, either a costly passport or birth certificate — documents many Americans don’t readily have — EVERY TIME they register, change their address or update their registration. This can be difficult for married women who changed their names and have lost their birth certificates. And every time a person has to register, they'd have to do it in person. Having to do this in person makes it hard for our military members, tribal citizens, rural voters and seniors.

The SAVE act also makes it extremely difficult for election workers. Election workers can face criminal penalties for letting someone vote without absolute proof of citizenship even if the voter is a citizen and they know them. Also, there will be costs that the state will have to pay to make changes. States may have to run state and federal elections separately and with no additional funds from the feds. Also, a lot of state money will have to be spent to let every Idaho voter know about the changes.

As of April 10, 2025, the SAVE Act narrowly passed in the House and is now headed to the Senate where Senators Risch and Crapo will vote on it. I really hope that if they care anything at all about democracy, they will vote NO. Please contact your Senators on the White House Switchboard (202.224.3121) or call or visit their local offices.

Susan Severson Meek, Pocatello