State Representative Bryan Posthumus has introduced a legislative proposal aimed at amending the Michigan state constitution. The amendment seeks to ensure that only U.S. citizens are eligible to vote and aims to prevent voter fraud by requiring proof of citizenship when registering and photo identification at the time of voting.
"This is a no-brainer. Only U.S. citizens should vote in our elections," stated Posthumus, R-Rockford. He emphasized the necessity for voters to show ID, stating, "And people should have to show ID when voting to prove that they are who they say they are. That’s just common sense."
The proposed amendment also includes provisions for issuing free photo IDs to individuals facing financial difficulties. Addressing concerns about access to IDs, Posthumus remarked, "That’s ridiculous because to function as an adult in our society today you need ID, but just to make sure that isn’t a stumbling block, the state will have to provide photo ID for free to people who cannot afford it. Problem solved."
In Michigan, constitutional amendments can be achieved through two routes: lawmakers may place a proposal on the ballot with a two-thirds majority in both legislative chambers or citizens can gather signatures for a ballot initiative.
Posthumus expressed confidence in his resolution passing through the legislature, noting potential political repercussions for opposing Democrats. The Democratic Party holds a majority in the state Senate while Republicans control the House with 58 seats against 52 following recent elections.
Highlighting past incidents such as alleged voting by non-citizens, Posthumus underscored perceived vulnerabilities in current election laws. He asserted that "No citizen should ever have their vote canceled out by a non-citizen voting the opposite direction."
If approved by voters, new registration requirements would commence after December 18, 2026. Key measures include mandatory proof of citizenship during registration and requiring photo ID for in-person voting while allowing provisional ballots under certain conditions.
Additionally, absentee voters would need identity verification via several acceptable forms of identification or personal numbers. The state would also be tasked with ensuring ongoing verification of voter citizenship status.
The proposal received backing from State Representatives Ann Bollin, Jay DeBoyer, and Rachelle Smit—all former local clerks—and was sent to the House Committee on Election Integrity for further consideration.
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