Noncitizen voter crackdown led by House GOP ahead of 2026 midterms

House Republicans are making strides in election security legislation, looking ahead to the 2026 midterm races. Republican Study Committee Chairman August Pfluger, R-Texas, introduced a new package of bills aimed at enhancing the integrity of the electoral system.
The proposed legislation includes a bill to prevent noncitizen residents of Washington, D.C. from voting in local elections, a bill to prohibit noncitizens from participating in the administration of elections, and a constitutional amendment to bar noncitizens from voting altogether. While it is already illegal for noncitizens to vote in federal elections, some localities, including Washington, D.C., allow noncitizens to participate in local-level elections.
Pfluger emphasized the importance of safeguarding free and fair elections, stating that these bills are essential in protecting the nation’s sovereignty and ensuring a flourishing democracy for future generations. The proposed measures aim to prevent noncitizens from influencing the electoral process through voting or election administration.
Earlier this year, House Republicans passed the Safeguarding American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, which mandates proof of citizenship in the voter registration process. Despite pushback from Democrats, who accuse Republicans of sowing doubt about the election process, Pfluger and his GOP allies are moving forward with their efforts well in advance of the 2026 midterm elections.
One of the co-sponsors of the election security package is House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington, R-Texas, who is instrumental in Republican efforts to enact conservative policy changes through budget reconciliation. Border security and immigration reform are expected to feature prominently in the forthcoming legislation.
By introducing these election security measures early, House Republicans are positioning themselves for the upcoming elections and demonstrating their commitment to preserving the integrity of the electoral system. The proposed bills seek to address potential vulnerabilities in the voting process and ensure that noncitizens do not have a say in the outcome of elections.