Story perspectives

South Dakota Mandates Citizenship Proof for New Voters

3/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden signed a bill requiring new voters to prove U.S. citizenship to vote in state and local elections.
The law does not affect current voters.
State Representative Erik Muckey, a Democrat, opposed the bill.
Critics argue the policy is unnecessary and could disenfranchise eligible voters.
The measure aligns with broader Republican efforts, including the stalled federal SAVE America Act seeking stricter voter registration and identification requirements.

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Story summary

South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden signed a bill requiring new voters to prove U.S. citizenship to vote in state and local elections.
The law does not affect current voters.
State Representative Erik Muckey, a Democrat, opposed the bill.
Critics argue the policy is unnecessary and could disenfranchise eligible voters.
The measure aligns with broader Republican efforts, including the stalled federal SAVE America Act seeking stricter voter registration and identification requirements.