'JAIL for Alien Voters Act' would close loophole, crack down on illegal-immigrant voting, says Gaetz

On October 29, 2024, in the United States, Florida Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz announced the introduction of the 'JAIL for Alien Voters Act.' This legislation intends to address a perceived loophole in federal voting laws that currently does not explicitly prohibit illegal immigrants from casting ballots in elections. As a result, Gaetz's bill aims to make voting as a noncitizen a felony, carrying the same penalties as voter fraud committed by U.S. citizens, including imprisonment and hefty fines. The proposed law changes the classification of voting by illegal immigrants from a misdemeanor to a felony, which could lead to up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine. This initiative is part of a broader Republican agenda aimed at tightening voting regulations in response to concerns about illegal voting, particularly in light of the increase in illegal immigration across the U.S. southern border. Furthermore, this legislative move aligns with Gaetz's previous efforts, such as the 'National Motor Voter Clarification Act,' intended to ensure that states have the authority to remove illegal immigrants from voter rolls. Support for the bill comes from several cosponsors in Congress, highlighting a united front on this issue. Critics argue that such measures may infringe on voting rights and disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. Nonetheless, proponents assert that these steps are crucial for maintaining election integrity and ensuring that only U.S. citizens can participate in the electoral process.