Senate GOP Blocks Dems' Voting Rights Push
Republicans Vote Down Wide-Ranging Legislation
On Wednesday night, Senate Democrats' last-ditch effort to pass sweeping voting rights legislation failed, as Senate Republicans voted down the wide-ranging bill.
John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act
The proposed legislation, known as the Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2023 (HR 14), is named after the late civil rights activist John Lewis. The bill aims to restore and strengthen key provisions of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
Parallel Legislation
Similar versions of both the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act and the Freedom to Vote Act have been approved by the House of Representatives. However, they face an uphill battle in the Senate, where Republicans have expressed strong opposition.
Congressional Authority
The proposed legislation is based on Congress's broad authority under the Constitution to regulate elections. This authority includes, but is not limited to, the following:
- Setting the time, place, and manner of elections
- Establishing voter registration systems
- Enforcing provisions against discrimination in voting
The John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act seeks to restore and update the full protections of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The Freedom to Vote Act addresses a range of voting reforms, including automatic voter registration, early voting, and expanded access to mail-in ballots.
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