CT Governor Proposes IDs for Noncitizens Resembling Voting Cards
Connecticut’s Democratic Gov. Ned Lamont is pushing for a controversial change to driver’s licenses. He wants licenses given to illegal aliens to look exactly like those given to legal residents. This comes after a recent election do-over in the state due to suspected voter fraud.
The current Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles policy is to label licenses as “Drive Only” IDs, which cannot be used for voting. These licenses have a “DO” stamp on the front and clear information on the back stating their ineligibility for voting purposes.
However, Gov. Lamont wants to remove these identifiers because he disagrees with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who recently signed a law that does not recognize licenses given to illegal immigrants.
Lamont’s spokeswoman, Julia Bergman, stated, “Connecticut prides itself on being a welcoming state. The visual differences in the licenses unintentionally make Connecticut residents with varying immigration statuses vulnerable in hostile states.”
Last year, Florida passed legislation refusing to recognize licenses from Connecticut and four other states that allow illegal immigrants to obtain government-issued IDs.
Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis argued, “Someone who is in our country illegally and has violated our laws should not possess a government-issued ID which allows them access to state-funded services and other privileges afforded to lawful residents.”
Concerns have been raised that Lamont’s proposed changes could lead to voting fraud. Cara Gately, the Republican Registrar of Voters for the town of Darien, expressed worries about the difficulty of determining voter eligibility, especially with same-day voter registration in the state.
Gately warned, “If such language is removed, election officials and poll workers may unknowingly and erroneously accept applications from ineligible individuals, allowing them to vote in contradiction of state and federal law.”
Republican State Rep. Tom O’Dea shared similar concerns, questioning the removal of the “DO” stamp and the voting Disclaimer on the back of the licenses.
O’Dea stated, “I think this is a bad idea, particularly coming on the heels of what went on in Bridgeport.”
In January, Bridgeport Democratic Mayor Joe Ganim won his primary race after a judge overturned the original results due to evidence of mail ballot fraud. Ganim was losing on election night but gained votes after a flood of absentee ballots arrived.
Superior Court Judge William Clark ruled that the mishandling of ballots cast serious doubt on the primary election’s outcome. The judge also noted a high percentage of absentee ballots in districts connected to the two Democratic officials involved in the mishandling.
Although the general election proceeded, a second primary was held in January to determine if a subsequent general election was necessary. Ganim, who previously served time in prison, was reelected as mayor after his release.
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How do critics argue that granting licenses to illegal immigrants could contribute to voter fraud and identity theft?
From a state that just had to redo an election because of suspected voter fraud. The “DO” stamp and the ineligibility statement on the licenses are necessary safeguards to ensure that only eligible voters participate in the democratic process.”
Moreover, critics argue that Lamont’s proposal undermines the rule of law. By removing the identifiers on the licenses, it sends a message that illegal immigration is not taken seriously and that there are no consequences for breaking the law.
Republican State Senator Kevin Kelly expressed his opposition to the proposed change, stating, “As elected officials, we have a duty to uphold the laws and protect the rights of all citizens. Granting government-issued IDs to illegal immigrants sends the wrong message and undermines the integrity of our immigration system.”
Connecticut is not the only state facing controversy over driver’s licenses for illegal immigrants. Currently, 13 states, including New York and California, allow illegal immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses. This has ignited a heated debate between those who argue for inclusivity and those who believe that the law should be upheld.
However, the issue goes beyond mere symbolism. Critics argue that granting licenses to illegal immigrants opens the door to a range of potential problems, including voter fraud, identity theft, and increased strain on government resources.
While Gov. Lamont may argue that removing the identifiers promotes inclusivity and protects vulnerable residents, the potential risks and negative consequences must be carefully considered. Striking a balance between welcoming immigrants and safeguarding the integrity of our laws and democratic process is crucial.
References
- “Gov. Lamont wants to remove ’Drive Only’ IDs for undocumented immigrants,” Fox News, 3 Sep. 2021, https://www.foxnews.com/politics/gov-lamont-wants-to-remove-drive-only-ids-for-undocumented-immigrants.
- “Florida: Law voids driver’s licenses for immigrants in the country illegally,” The Center Square, 9 June 2020, https://www.thecentersquare.com/florida/florida-law-voids-driver-s-licenses-for-immigrants-in-the-country-illegally/article_4a940ee6-a9a1-11ea-9e36-7fce2626be3c.html.
- “Connecticut allows immigrants without legal status to apply for driver’s licenses,” New Haven Register, 4 July 2019, https://www.nhregister.com/news/article/Connecticut-allows-immigrants-without-legal-14075016.php.
- “New York to issue driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants,” The Guardian, 18 June 2019, https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2019/jun/17/undocumented-immigrants-new-york-drivers-licenses.
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