In a tight Senate race in Maryland, Democratic frontrunner Rep. David Trone advocates extending voting rights to millions of migrants who entered the United States illegally. While federal elections are restricted to U.S. citizens, there’s a growing trend allowing non-citizens to vote in certain state and local elections.

Expanding Voting Rights: Where We Stand

Recent Developments

• Washington D.C., San Francisco, Oakland (California), and some cities in Maryland and Vermont permit noncitizens to vote in local elections.
• In February, a New York City law allowing non-citizens to vote in local races was deemed unconstitutional by a state appeals court.

Voices in the Debate

• Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-N.Y.): Argues that voting should be reserved for U.S. citizens to prevent dilution of American voices.
• Rep. Jim Costa (D-California): Opposes extending voting rights to non-citizens, emphasizing that citizenship entails certain privileges, including voting.

Political Landscape and Reaction

With immigration remaining a top concern for voters, the issue of non-citizen voting has become a focal point in the 2024 presidential race. Former President Donald Trump has integrated this debate into his criticism of President Biden’s policies.

Trump’s Perspective

Former President Trump, known for his stance on border security and immigration, has been vocal in opposing the extension of voting rights to non-citizens. Trump supporters argue that allowing non-citizens to vote undermines the fundamental principles of American democracy.

Border Security and the Trump Legacy

During Trump’s presidency, policies aimed at tightening border security saw a significant decrease in illegal border crossings. The Remain in Mexico policy, implemented during Trump’s tenure, contributed to this decline. However, on his second day in office, President Biden terminated this policy, leading to a surge in border crossings.

Protecting American Values

The debate over non-citizen voting underscores broader discussions about citizenship, democracy, and the rights of individuals within a nation. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the issue remains contentious, with proponents and opponents advocating for their respective positions in the name of preserving American

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