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Big government in Missouri is about to get bigger. Republicans in the Missouri Senate want to require you to prove you are an American citizen every time you vote.

They plan on requiring proof of citizenship, meaning if you want to vote, you'll need to bring your passport or birth certificate. What's next? Pretty soon, will they also demand a blood sample? Maybe a lock of hair? Or some of your DNA?

This is a solution in search of a problem. Much like the poll taxes and literacy tests of the past, Republicans are hide their real purpose under the banner of preventing possible voting fraud. But this law is really about stopping senior citizens, the disabled and poor people from voting. Why? Because they typically vote for Democrats.

Republicans claim it's about national security. They have no proof, but illegal immigrants might be trying to vote. On the other hand, just last week in Indiana's primary, as many as 12 nuns were denied their right to vote because they didn't have government issued photo-ids. Yeah, you read that right; Republican's are protecting our democracy from our biggest threat: nuns.

Voter suppression laws are spreading and gaining speed in Republican controlled legislatures throughout the country. It is up to us to send a message right now that we will not stand aside while Republicans attempt to disenfranchise hundreds of thousands of people using anti-immigrant fear mongering.

Together, we will stand for freedom and protect every American citizen's sacred right to vote. Thank you for everything you do.

-Jim

Jim Dean
Chair