U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Representative Eli Crane (R-Ariz.-02) have led a bicameral effort to support a petition by the America First Legal Foundation. The petition calls for requiring proof of U.S. citizenship for voter registration in federal elections.
The lawmakers sent a comment letter to the relevant commission, advocating for changes to federal regulations. The letter states: “Requiring documentary proof of citizenship is a simple, common-sense reform. Just as Americans are asked to show identification for far less consequential activities—boarding an airplane, opening a bank account, or even attending certain events—it is entirely reasonable to require proof of citizenship to participate in our elections. This step would not burden eligible voters but would provide an essential check to ensure that only citizens are added to the voter rolls.”
The letter continues: “For these reasons, we respectfully urge the Commission to grant this petition and update federal regulations accordingly. Requiring documentary proof of citizenship will strengthen the integrity of our elections, safeguard the voices of American citizens, and ensure that every lawful vote is protected from being diluted by unlawful ballots.”
Other lawmakers who joined Cruz and Crane in submitting the comment letter include Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), and Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio).
Senator Cruz has maintained his seat through several election cycles. In 2024, he defeated Colin Allred with 53.1% of the vote compared to Allred’s 44.6%. In previous elections, Cruz won against Beto O'Rourke in 2018 and Paul Sadler in 2012.
The full comment letter and the America First Legal Foundation’s petition can be accessed online.
