More than 30 advocacy groups are asking a federal elections official to withdraw changes made to a national form requiring residents of Kansas, Alabama and Georgia to provide proof of U.S. citizenship in order to register to vote. The groups sent a letter Thursday to the new executive director of the U.S. Election Assistance Commission, arguing the impact would be particularly significant because 2016 is a presidential election year when people typically register in greater numbers.
The EAC had no immediate comment, but executive director Brian Newby has insisted that the action he took at the states’ request is within his authority.
One of the agency’s commissioners has said Newby’s action contradicts policy and precedent.
Among those signing the letter were nonprofits Common Cause and Public Citizen and the NAACP.
Source: Groups Decry US Election Official Acting on Citizenship Rule – ABC News.