H.R.707 - Deport Illegal Voters Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 707, the "Deport Illegal Voters Act of 2025," aims to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act, specifically targeting unlawful voting by non-citizens. The bill seeks to classify unlawful voting as an aggravated felony under immigration law. This reclassification would lead to the deportation of any alien convicted of voting in violation of federal, state, or local laws.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be to increase the number of deportations for non-citizens who have voted unlawfully. It would also likely deter non-citizens from voting, even if they mistakenly believe they are eligible. The bill could also lead to increased scrutiny of voter rolls and potential legal challenges regarding voter eligibility.
Potential Benefits
- Increased election integrity: Proponents argue that it would deter non-citizens from illegally voting, thus safeguarding the integrity of elections.
- Compliance with the law: Enforces existing laws against non-citizen voting.
- National Security: Prevents individuals who violate laws from influencing the political process.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for voter suppression: Could discourage eligible voters from participating due to fear and confusion.
- Increased burden on the justice system: Could lead to more investigations and prosecutions, straining resources.
- Disproportionate impact on immigrant communities: May create a climate of fear and distrust within these communities.
- Risk of wrongful deportation: Possibility of deporting individuals who mistakenly believed they were eligible to vote.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutionality is debatable. While Article I, Section 2 defines electors' qualifications, the extent to which Congress can legislate on deporting individuals for violating state or local voting laws is a complex issue. The Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, which could be invoked in challenges to the bill. However, the federal government has broad authority over immigration and naturalization.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).