Congressman Chip Roy has emphasized the need for the Save America Act to secure federal elections. He cited a “software glitch” in New Jersey, where 6,600 non-citizens were registered to vote, with hundreds actually casting ballots. Roy argued this issue supports the necessity of voter ID laws, which 80% of Americans favor, urging the Senate to pass the bill.
New Jersey Democratic Governor Mikie Sherrill expressed a willingness to consider voter ID laws in the state. However, she criticized President Donald Trump’s SAVE Act initiative, labeling it as “voter suppression.” Sherrill’s spokesperson mentioned that she supports existing ID requirements for voter registration and is open to making elections “fairer and stronger.” This stance provides New Jersey Republicans an opportunity to push Democrats on voter ID, despite Sherrill’s opposition to Trump’s federal election proposals.
Governor Sherrill has faced scrutiny following a Motor Vehicle Commission error that incorrectly registered around 6,600 individuals who had identified themselves as non-citizens. Of those improperly registered, fewer than 400 voted. New Jersey has announced the removal of over 4,500 registrations, with the remainder under further review to verify citizenship.
New Jersey Assembly Minority Leader John DiMaio highlighted this shift in stance, noting years of Republican advocacy for voter ID. He stated that while Sherrill’s public agreement is significant, the Democratic legislative leadership controls the legislative process and Republicans have not heard any movement on voter ID from them.
Voter-ID requirements frequently spark partisan disputes at the state level. Democrats and voting-rights groups argue some requirements can hinder eligible voters. A notable conflict occurred in Georgia in 2021, involving photo ID for in-person and absentee voting, leading to reactions such as MLB relocating its All-Star Game.
Rep. Mikie Sherrill, known for her military and public service, stands against “MAGA Republicans’ voter suppression attempts,” according to her office. She has previously expanded voting access by signing the John R. Lewis Voter Empowerment Act, which bans voter intimidation and discrimination.
Trump continues to stress the presence of non-citizens on voter rolls, advocating for the SAVE America Act, which mandates proof of U.S. citizenship to register for federal elections and photo ID to vote federally. Trump urged the passage of Voter ID laws during a statement from the Oval Office.