The potential impact of implementing national voter ID legislation and the strategic opportunity it presents to Senate Republicans. It highlights the popularity of such legislation and explores how a filibuster against it could politically benefit the GOP, particularly in the context of upcoming elections.
1. Popularity of Voter ID: The article asserts that requiring voter ID is broadly supported, with 84% of Americans in favor and only 15% opposed. Most developed countries and 36 U. S. states implement such laws.
2. Democratic Opposition: It suggests that Democratic leaders and activists oppose voter ID laws because they prioritize maintaining voting access for citizens, including noncitizens. The author claims that Democrats have invested in illegal voter registration practices and face backlash from their base against voter ID initiatives.
3. Political Strategy for Republicans: Senate Majority Leader John Thune has the leverage and votes to capitalize on this issue by prompting a filibuster of the voter ID legislation, known as the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act. The author argues that a prolonged filibuster by Democrats could turn into a significant campaign ad for Republicans, showcasing the Democrats' opposition to popular voter ID measures.
4. Filibuster Mechanics: The article explodes the current misconceptions about Senate procedures, emphasizing the traditional method allowing unlimited debate (often termed a "real filibuster"). By activating the SAVE Act under this process, Republicans could force Democrats to sustain extended debate without needing the usual 60 votes to end it.
5. Potential Outcomes: The scenario laid out suggests that this tactic would place Democrats in a difficult position. They would need to defend their stance against a widely supported policy, potentially alienating moderate voters. As the debate unfolds, Republicans could use the coverage to reinforce their political messaging.
6. Implications for Upcoming Elections: The author projects that the exposure from such a filibuster could change the electoral landscape heading into the midterm elections. If Republicans navigate this strategy effectively, they could strengthen their support and mitigate Democratic momentum.
In conclusion, the article supports the notion that leveraging the voter ID debate through a filibuster could significantly enhance the Republican position in upcoming elections. The Republican party is urged to act on this opportunity, as failing to do so could result in further Democratic advancements and the perpetuation of existing voter registration practices. The author asserts that neglecting this strategy would only inconvenience the senators personally, not align with the priorities of their constituents or the wider party agenda.
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