North Carolina voters to decide on constitutional amendment to have voting for citizens only

North Carolina voters will have the opportunity to vote on a state constitutional amendment which will prevent noncitizens voting in any election in the state.

The North Carolina Citizenship Requirement Amendment is the only ballot measure to appear on the state’s ballot this election. North Carolina is one of eight states also considering a similar citizen voting requirement measure.

Political parties are divided on the necessity of such measures. Republicans argue they secure elections, while Democrats express concerns about the limiting of voting rights.

The proposed amendment would change the language in Section I, Article VI, of the North Carolina Constitution to “only” citizens of the United States are allowed to vote, instead of “every person born in the United States and every person who has been naturalized” is allowed to vote.

The state’s Legislature voted on June 28 to place the amendment on the General Election ballot, after recent concerns around the nation about noncitizens voting in elections. Citizens in North Carolina do not have the power to initiate statewide ballot measures.

“Tightening our elections laws so that only U.S. citizens are voting in this country ensures that those making decisions about our country's future have a vested interest in its well-being,” said state Rep. Destin Hall, R-Caldwell, who proposed the amendment.

Caldwell is the chairman of the state House Rules Committee.

“Voting is a fundamental right and privilege reserved for citizens of the United States, and I am proud to support this effort to ensure the integrity of our elections," he said.

Some Democrats say the change is unnecessary.

Democracy North Carolina, a nonpartisan group pushing to “strengthen democratic structures,” does not support the amendment.

“HB1074 sows division across communities, promotes mistrust in our elections, and perpetuates anti-immigration hate and racism,” a statement from the organization said, referring to the House of Representatives bill by number. “Democracy NC, alongside statewide advocates, are urging voters to 'VOTE NO.'"

Democrats say there are already federal regulations which prohibit noncitizens from voting. Federal law states it is unlawful for noncitizens to vote in federal elections, but does not refer to elections on the state or local level and left states to decide for themselves.

Republicans say it is still important to clarify the language for state and local officials.

Since 1985, 24 ballot measures have been approved in North Carolina, while only five have been defeated.

A simple majority of over 50% is needed for the amendment to pass. A “yes” vote is in favor of passing the amendment, while a “no” vote wants to leave the Constitution as it is.