SE Grand Rapids News

Rachelle Smit, Speaker Pro Tem, criticized House Democrats for their rejection of a plan aimed at enforcing voter security measures. The proposal, known as House Joint Resolution B (HJR B), sought to make proof of citizenship a requirement for voting in state elections. A survey by Pew Research indicated that 81% of respondents support the idea of requiring government-issued photo identification to cast a vote.

Smit, who chairs the House Election Integrity Committee, drew parallels between voting and other routine activities that necessitate proof of citizenship. "We provide proof of citizenship to get a new job, open a bank account, buy a house, run for office, and many other uncontroversial tasks," she said. She also emphasized her personal experiences, stating that providing such documentation never left her feeling disenfranchised. She accused Democrats of fear-mongering by suggesting that the requirement would significantly disenfranchise voters.

HJR B aimed to enforce various requirements, including proof of citizenship for first-time voters, photo ID for in-person voters, and similar identification for absentee voters. It proposed a system where in-person voters without ID could cast provisional ballots, which would be counted if they returned with an ID within six days following the election.

For the resolution to be enacted, it required approval by two-thirds of the state House and Senate before being placed on the ballot for the general election, for a decision by the public on amending the Michigan Constitution.

Citing recent incidents, such as a Chinese national allegedly voting in a Michigan election, Smit expressed concerns over non-citizens participating in voting. She pointed to an announcement from the Michigan Department of State which found 15 non-citizens possibly involved in voter fraud during the 2024 election. "How many more of these foreign nationals have voted in our elections without us ever knowing?" Smit asked, highlighting the need for enhanced security measures. "Michigan residents won’t forget who stood up for our elections and who stepped aside and continued to allow foreign nationals to corrupt our system."