Washington, DC — Today, Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement after the Supreme Court struck down an Arizona law requiring proof of citizenship to register to vote:

“Today’s Supreme Court ruling marks an important victory for voters in Arizona and those across this nation whose right to vote has been under attack with discriminatory voter identification laws that have been enacted in states like Arizona, Alabama and Georgia. No right is more fundamental to our democracy than our right to vote. The Supreme Court ruled that the current federal law, the National Voter Registration Act of 1993, supersedes Arizona’s overreaching proof of citizenship law and ensured this most basic right is protected.

And while we celebrate today’s decision, we must not forget that attempts to disenfranchise voters across this country will continue. I anxiously await the Supreme Court’s ruling on the Shelby County, AL v. Holder case and it is my hope that the court will rule in favor of the preclearance provision of the Voting Rights Act. I remain committed to working with my colleagues and supporting legislation that will help ensure free and fair elections, so that everyone, including students, seniors, minorities and veterans can exercise their constitutional right to vote.”

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Contact: Rob NeSmith;        rob.nesmith@mail.house.gov;        202.225.2665