Senator Collins Supports Controversial Voter ID Bill
Despite Maine voters’ rejection of a proposal requiring photo ID for voting, Sen. Susan Collins has voiced support for a controversial bill that would enforce such measures across the U.S. The proposed legislation, known as the SAVE Act, also seeks to curtail mail-in voting and mandate proof of citizenship for voter registration.
In a recent fundraising email, Collins expressed her stance: “I announced that I will vote for the SAVE America Act because the law and the Constitution are clear: Citizens of other countries should not be voting in American elections.” Her position aligns with former President Donald Trump, who has actively promoted the bill, stating, “Our elections are crooked as hell, and you can win—not only win elections over that and not only win future elections—but you’ll win every debate because the public is really angry about it.”
However, the Department of Homeland Security’s analysis found that noncitizen voting is extremely rare and does not affect election results. Currently, it is illegal for noncitizens to vote in most U.S. elections.
Legislative and Political Implications
The SAVE Act recently passed the House with predominant Republican support but faces challenges in the Senate, needing a 60-vote majority unless Republicans opt to suspend the filibuster, a move that is under consideration. Collins could play a pivotal role if Republicans choose to override the filibuster.
Critics, including voting rights advocates, argue the SAVE Act risks disenfranchising over 21 million Americans. Issues such as mismatches in legal documents may particularly impact married women who have changed their names, as highlighted in a report.
Reactions from Political Opponents
Maine Governor Janet Mills, a Democratic contender against Collins in the upcoming election, has criticized the senator for her support of the bill. Mills stated, “The right to vote is the foundation of American democracy, and Maine is proud to have one of the highest voter participation rates in the nation. But Susan Collins is once again appeasing Republican leadership and caving to pressure by backing a dangerous Trump-backed voter suppression bill that will disenfranchise voters across Maine and America.”
Fellow challenger Graham Platner echoed similar sentiments, stating in a Facebook video, “Under this terrible bill, if you get married and change your name—or if you can’t find your passport—you could be turned away from the polls.”
Senator Collins remains the only Republican seeking reelection in 2026 from a state where Trump did not secure victory in the 2024 election.
For further details, visit the original article on American Journal News.
