May 7, 2024
Dear Members of Congress,
On behalf of Independent Women’s Voice, which fights to enhance people’s freedom, safety, and well-being, I strongly endorse the Equal Representation Act (H.R. 7109), introduced by Representative Chuck Edwards.
This legislation addresses a critical issue affecting our nation’s security and democratic principles, particularly in light of observations made during my recent visit to the U.S. Southern border.
The U.S. is witnessing catastrophically high levels of illegal migration which is overburdening our communities and placing our people in peril. I can unequivocally attest to the urgent need for laws that prioritize the safety and security of American citizens, which includes protecting the weight and power of their vote.
There are over 22 million noncitizens in the U.S., which comprises nearly 7% of the nation’s population. This impacts some states more significantly, leaving their citizens more vulnerable to voter dilution.
This bill proposes amendments to Title 13 of the Census, aimed at enhancing the accuracy and integrity of census data.
The bill mandates the inclusion of a citizenship inquiry in the decennial census, starting with the 2030 census. This requirement entails adding a checkbox or similar option for respondents and each member of their household to indicate their citizenship status.
Furthermore, the legislation addresses concerns regarding congressional apportionment by stipulating the exclusion of individuals who are not citizens of the United States from the apportionment base.
This exclusion applies to the 2030 census and all subsequent decennial censuses, ensuring that congressional representation accurately reflects the citizen population.
By ensuring that congressional representation is based on the number of citizens, rather than including noncitizens who cannot vote in federal elections, this legislation upholds the fundamental principle of “one person, one vote” and promotes fair representation for all American citizens.
In light of the overwhelming challenges posed by an open border and the imperative to safeguard our citizens’ well-being, we believe that H.R. 7109 is a vital step towards ensuring equal representation and upholding the integrity of our democratic processes.
Thank you, Representative Chuck Edwards, for prioritizing Americans and preserving their rights as citizens. We urge the U.S. House to pass this bill immediately and continue to work towards securing our borders and protecting our homeland.
Respectfully,
Meaghan Mobbs
Director, Center for American Safety and Security (CASS)
Independent Women’s Voice