Story perspectives

Texas Bans Non-Citizens from Voting; Maine Rejects ID Law

11/7/2025

Center

Texas Voters Exclude Non-Citizens

Texas voters approved a constitutional amendment to exclude non-citizens from elections.
Maine voters rejected a strict voter ID proposal.
The Texas measure aligns with a broader Republican effort to implement voter ID laws nationwide.
In Kansas, Attorney General Kris Kobach filed election fraud charges against Coldwater Mayor Jose Ceballos, a legal permanent resident who is not a U.S. citizen and could be barred from serving as mayor.

Left

LaRose Advocates Citizenship Proof

Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose supports a proposal requiring proof of citizenship for voter registration, though he acknowledges implementation challenges.
State Sen. Willis Blackshear and Jen Miller of the League of Women Voters say the changes create unnecessary voter hurdles, risking delays and signature issues, especially in rural areas.
Democratic Board member Bob McCollister calls the measure extreme, noting non-citizen fraud is rare and warning of disenfranchisement.

History

Historical Context

The Voting Rights Act of 1965, signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson, aimed to eliminate racial discrimination in voting, particularly in Southern states. By 1966, over 1 million new African American voters registered, reflecting significant progress. However, recent proposals in Texas and Ohio echo historical struggles over voter access, raising concerns about potential disenfranchisement reminiscent of past injustices in electoral participation.

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Texas Voters Exclude Non-Citizens

Texas voters approved a constitutional amendment to exclude non-citizens from elections.
Maine voters rejected a strict voter ID proposal.
The Texas measure aligns with a broader Republican effort to implement voter ID laws nationwide.
In Kansas, Attorney General Kris Kobach filed election fraud charges against Coldwater Mayor Jose Ceballos, a legal permanent resident who is not a U.S. citizen and could be barred from serving as mayor.

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