DiscoverThe NPR Politics PodcastExamining GOP False Claims Of Noncitizens Voting
Examining GOP False Claims Of Noncitizens Voting

Examining GOP False Claims Of Noncitizens Voting

Update: 2024-09-123
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This episode of the NPR Politics Podcast dives into the persistent myth of non-citizen voting in US elections, a claim that has been repeatedly debunked by studies and audits. The hosts discuss the lack of evidence supporting this claim, highlighting numerous studies and audits that have found only a handful of isolated cases of non-citizen voting, often accidental. They explore the origins of this conspiracy theory, connecting it to the "great replacement theory," a racist conspiracy theory that alleges elites are intentionally replacing white populations with immigrants of color to dilute their voting power. The podcast examines the voter registration process, emphasizing the checks and balances in place to prevent non-citizens from registering, including the use of driver's licenses and social security numbers as proof of citizenship. They discuss the potential confusion caused by the requirement for a citizenship checkmark on voter registration cards. The episode explores Republican efforts to enforce proof of citizenship requirements for voter registration, including the Save Act, and the potential impact of these measures on voters, particularly those who may not have readily available documentation. They discuss the confusion caused by communications sent to voters regarding their citizenship status. The podcast explores the reasons behind the resurgence of the non-citizen voting myth in the current political climate, connecting it to the unprecedented number of immigrants at the US-Mexico border and the potential for this myth to be used to discredit election results. The episode examines the responses of election officials to the claims of non-citizen voting, discussing the use of lawsuits as a tactic to discredit elections, the potential impact of proof of citizenship requirements on voter turnout, and the concerns of election officials about the spread of misinformation.

Outlines

00:00:59
The Myth of Non-Citizen Voting

This episode debunks the persistent myth of non-citizen voting in US elections, highlighting the lack of evidence supporting this claim and exploring its connection to the "great replacement theory."

00:03:30
Voter Registration and Proof of Citizenship

The podcast examines the voter registration process, emphasizing the checks and balances in place to prevent non-citizens from registering and discussing the potential confusion caused by the requirement for a citizenship checkmark on voter registration cards.

00:04:36
Republican Efforts to Enforce Proof of Citizenship

The episode explores Republican efforts to enforce proof of citizenship requirements for voter registration, including the Save Act, and the potential impact of these measures on voters, particularly those who may not have readily available documentation.

00:08:13
The Resurgence of the Non-Citizen Voting Myth

The podcast explores the reasons behind the resurgence of the non-citizen voting myth in the current political climate, connecting it to the unprecedented number of immigrants at the US-Mexico border and the potential for this myth to be used to discredit election results.

Keywords

Non-Citizen Voting


The claim that non-citizens are voting in US elections, often used as a justification for voter suppression measures. This claim has been repeatedly debunked by studies and audits, with no evidence to support it.

Great Replacement Theory


A racist conspiracy theory that alleges elites are intentionally replacing white populations with immigrants of color to dilute their voting power and advance a political agenda. This theory has gained traction among some Republicans and has been linked to violent incidents.

Voter Suppression


Efforts to restrict or discourage voting, often targeting specific groups of people. These efforts can include voter ID laws, restrictions on early voting, and purging voter rolls.

Election Denial


The refusal to accept the results of an election, often based on unfounded claims of fraud or irregularities. This phenomenon has become increasingly prevalent in recent years, particularly among Republicans.

Proof of Citizenship


The requirement for voters to provide documentation proving their citizenship status, often used as a justification for voter suppression. This requirement can disproportionately impact marginalized communities who may not have readily available documentation.

Election Integrity


The assurance that elections are conducted fairly and accurately, free from fraud or manipulation. This concept is often used by proponents of voter suppression measures to justify their efforts, despite the lack of evidence of widespread voter fraud.

Q&A

  • What evidence is there to support the claim that non-citizens are voting in US elections?

    There is no evidence to support this claim. Numerous studies and audits have debunked it, finding only a handful of isolated cases of non-citizen voting, which are often accidental.

  • How does the "great replacement theory" relate to the non-citizen voting myth?

    The "great replacement theory" is a racist conspiracy theory that alleges elites are intentionally replacing white populations with immigrants of color to dilute their voting power. This theory provides a framework for understanding the non-citizen voting myth, as it suggests that immigrants are a threat to the political power of white Americans.

  • What are the potential impacts of Republican efforts to enforce proof of citizenship requirements for voter registration?

    These efforts could disproportionately impact marginalized communities who may not have readily available documentation, potentially leading to voter suppression. They could also create confusion and fear among voters, discouraging participation in elections.

  • How are election officials responding to the claims of non-citizen voting?

    Election officials are concerned about the spread of misinformation and the potential for these claims to be used to discredit election results. They are also worried about the impact of proof of citizenship requirements on voter turnout and the potential for voter suppression.

Show Notes

It's an allegation that's centuries old, but is increasingly becoming prominent in political discourse — that noncitizens are voting en masse to influence American elections. Even though it isn't true, it is influencing policy discussions, and having an impact on registered voters.

This episode: White House correspondent Asma Khalid, voting correspondent Miles Parks, and correspondent Jude Joffe-Block.

The podcast is produced by Jeongyoon Han, Casey Morell and Kelli Wessinger. Our editor is Eric McDaniel. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.

Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at
plus.npr.org/politics.

Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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Examining GOP False Claims Of Noncitizens Voting

Examining GOP False Claims Of Noncitizens Voting