Rep. David W. Martin (R-Davison) yesterday cast a critical vote for a joint resolution to amend the state constitution, requiring proof of citizenship for voting in Michigan elections. The joint resolution, which Martin also co-sponsored, would require a photo identification and proof of citizenship to vote in the state. House Joint Resolution B would require a 2/3 vote from the House and Senate to trigger a referendum to enshrine the provision in the Michigan Constitution.

“Over the past several months, the Secretary of State’s office has revealed evidence that more and more non-citizens have been illegally casting ballots in Michigan elections,” Martin said. “It’s fundamental that our citizens have fair and equal representation. When non-citizens cancel out the votes of hardworking Michigan families, those families are disenfranchised. Our founders believed in a representative form of government, and the integrity of that system is threatened when our citizens have their voices muffled by individuals who shouldn’t be at the polls to begin with.”

House Joint Resolution B failed to receive a 2/3 majority on Thursday afternoon, with all Democrat representatives present voting against it. However, Martin says he will continue championing election integrity.

“While I’m disappointed our colleagues across the aisle did not support the joint resolution, I am going to continue taking measures to secure our elections,” Martin said. “I ran on common-sense. If only citizens can vote in our elections, you should have to prove you’re a citizen to vote. The rules mean nothing if they aren’t clarified and enforced properly.”

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