( The Hill ) — South Carolina voters approved a GOP-backed proposal on Tuesday that seeks to block non-U.S. citizens from voting in elections in a move that critics have said is “completely unnecessary.”
The measure would amend the state’s constitution to allow “only” citizens to vote in elections, as former President Trump and other Republicans have spread unfounded claims that there is widespread noncitizen voter fraud.
State Sen. Chip Campsen (R-S.C.) said in remarks obtained by The Post and Courier that the effort is a “belt and suspenders approach” to prevent changes in the court later on.
“Constitutional provisions are for the long run. Unless you’re OK with noncitizens voting, there’s no reason for you to oppose this,” Campsen said.
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However, Democrats and advocates have come out against such pushes, noting noncitizens are already blocked from voting in federal elections – and are only allowed to participate in local elections in a few cities.