Congress aims to ban foreign nationals from voting with the SAVE Act

In the United States, the issue of electoral integrity has become a significant concern, especially during the Biden administration which saw a surge in illegal immigration. This increase has led to questions surrounding the potential involvement of noncitizens in the voting process, coupled with perceived weaknesses in voter identification laws across various states. In response, the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, known as the SAVE Act, was introduced by Representative Chip Roy of Texas in January 2025, gaining momentum and co-sponsorship from more than 120 lawmakers in Congress. The SAVE Act seeks to reinforce election integrity by preventing foreign nationals from participating in U.S. elections. It aims to restore the trust of American voters by enforcing stricter registration requirements, mandating proof of U.S. citizenship and identity for those looking to register to vote in federal elections. This legislative move is positioned as a direct response to the challenges posed by illegal immigration and lax voter ID laws which critics argue have compromised the elections' integrity. Supporters of the SAVE Act believe it is a long-overdue measure that aligns with President Donald Trump's prior executive orders aimed at safeguarding electoral processes. They argue that the legislation is essential for maintaining a system where American citizens can vote without concern for noncitizen interference, emphasizing that having a reliable proof-of-citizenship requirement is a common-sense solution to issues that undermine public confidence in elections. Despite the introduction of the SAVE Act, there is a recognition among some legislators and commentators that further reforms beyond this bill might be necessary. They advocate for a comprehensive overhaul of election laws to ensure that the will of the American people is fully protected and represented in the voting process. There is a strong sentiment that members of Congress need to heed the call of Americans for secure and fair elections, ensuring that only eligible voters partake in the democratic process.