Veasey, Wyden Lead Efforts to Boost Voter Registration Ahead of Midterms
Today, Rep. Veasey (D-TX) is introducing a Resolution with Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) to make September National Voting Rights Month. The bicameral resolution will spark voter registration, encourage Congress to pass legislation so 18-year-olds are automatically registered to vote in Federal elections, and push Congress to restore the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Veasey currently serves as Chair of the Congressional Voting Rights Caucus (CVRC).
“By making September National Voting Rights Month, we are firing up Americans to defend their democracy,” saidCongressman Veasey. “This Resolution will spark voter engagement, teach our children about our country’s history of voter suppression, and encourage the next generation to get registered, so they can have a voice in the direction of this country.”
According to Veasey, there are currently over 110 Members of Congress, in addition to over 20 voting rights and civil rights organizations supporting the resolution.
“This resolution brings much-needed awareness to the issue of voter suppression, and encourages Congress to take real action to combat these tactics and empower every American to take part in our democracy,” said Senator Wyden.
Jason Kander, former Missouri Secretary of State and current president of Let America Vote, also expressed his support of the effort, adding, “The right to vote is the cornerstone of American democracy, and we should be doing everything we can to protect and expand that right for eligible Americans.By designating a month to recognize the progress we’ve made and the work we have left to do, we draw vital attention to the ongoing struggle that began with the Civil Rights Movement.”
