The U.S. House GOP has set up a potential fight over noncitizen voting in a bill designed to avert a government shutdown. The bill, which was passed by the House with a 220-211 vote, includes a provision that would prevent states from allowing noncitizens to vote in federal elections. This provision has sparked controversy among lawmakers, with Republicans arguing that it is necessary to protect the integrity of U.S. elections and prevent voter fraud.
The bill also includes funding to keep the government running through mid-February, as well as funding for COVID-19 response efforts and assistance for Afghan refugees. However, the noncitizen voting provision has emerged as a key point of contention between Democrats and Republicans.
Democrats argue that the provision is discriminatory and undermines voting rights, particularly for immigrants and minority groups. They have accused Republicans of using the issue as a political tactic to rally their base and distract from other pressing issues. Some Democrats have also raised concerns that the provision could be used to target legal immigrants who have the right to vote in some local elections.
Despite the controversy surrounding the noncitizen voting provision, the bill is expected to pass the Senate with bipartisan support in order to prevent a government shutdown. However, the debate over the provision is likely to continue, with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle expressing strong opinions on the issue.
Overall, the bill represents a crucial juncture in the ongoing political tensions surrounding immigration and voting rights in the United States. As lawmakers work to avoid a government shutdown, the debate over noncitizen voting will remain a central focus in the coming days.
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