Since the Supreme Court gutted the Voting Rights Act in its 2013 Shelby County v. Holder decision, and again in the Brnovich v. DNC decision in July 2021, there has been a steady increase in the number of restrictive voting laws that disproportionately suppress turnout among minorities, young adults, and the elderly. It has never been more urgent to restore and modernize the protections of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
That is why I introduced H.R. 4 – The John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. This historic legislation modernizes the Voting Rights Act of 1965, reaffirms our commitment to voter equality, and restores critical federal oversight to protect the rights of voters. I am proud that H.R. 4 passed the House of Representatives in two previous congresses. However, Senate Republicans continue to use the filibuster to block the bill.
The foot soldiers of the Civil Rights Movement fought, bled, and died to secure the right to vote for all Americans. It is our turn to continue the march and recommit ourselves to the principles of democracy, equality, and justice for all.
Check back in the coming week for updates concerning my work and views on voting rights. For more information in the meantime, please contact my Washington, DC office. I look forward to your feedback.
Thank you.
