In a landmark move, Santa Ana's City Council has voted to place a measure on the November 2024 ballot that, if passed, would allow noncitizens to vote in municipal elections. This measure, spearheaded by council members Jonathan Hernandez and Benjamin Vazquez, aims to include undocumented residents, permanent residents, green card holders, asylum seekers, and refugees in the democratic process of the city.
The council's decision was not unanimous, reflecting a sharp divide on the issue. The measure was approved with a narrow 4-3 vote, with council members Jessie Lopez, Thai Viet Phan, Ben Vazquez, and Jonathan Ryan Hernandez voting in favor. Opponents of the measure, including Mayor Valerie Amezcua and council members Phil Bacerra and David Penaloza, voiced concerns about the legal and financial implications of such a move. They warned that the city would likely face expensive legal battles and would need to establish a new system for voter registration and ballot counting.
NEW 2024: House Administration Hearing On NON CITIZENS VOTING
“This is a disaster what happened in pennsylvania that has not gotten enough attention”
“Pennsylvania has been registering non-citizens to vote for 20 years, and they admit it. This is not subject to debate”
“The… pic.twitter.com/IZOc0y6hDv
— Wall Street Apes (@WallStreetApes) June 2, 2024
Proponents argue that noncitizens contribute significantly to Santa Ana’s economy and community, and therefore deserve a voice in local governance. Councilmember Thai Viet Phan highlighted that expanding voting rights has historically faced challenges, drawing parallels to the struggle for women's suffrage before the 19th Amendment. Supporters believe this measure will empower residents who are affected by local policies but currently have no say in their creation.
Critics, however, contend that the measure is hasty and lacks thorough planning. They also fear it could prompt legal challenges similar to those seen in San Francisco, where noncitizen voting in school board elections was recently struck down by an appellate court. Mayor Amezcua and other opponents argue that the measure could lead to voter fraud and complicate election processes.
WOW 🚨 American Elections Are SO RIGGED
District of Columbia, Washington DC, “Non citizen voting education virtual training.”
“This is by the Board of Elections in the District of Columbia.”
“Illegal aliens and other noncitizens can vote”
You can “Register to vote same day… pic.twitter.com/GlMIRf3fnZ
— Wall Street Apes (@WallStreetApes) May 28, 2024
The debate in Santa Ana mirrors larger national conversations about voting rights and immigration. Nearby cities like Huntington Beach are taking a different approach, proposing stricter voter ID laws to ensure only citizens vote. This contrast highlights the diverse perspectives on how to balance inclusivity with election integrity.
If Santa Ana voters approve the measure, it would make the city the first in Southern California to allow noncitizens to vote in local elections, setting a precedent that could influence other cities across the state and country. As the 2024 election approaches, this initiative is poised to be a significant issue, reflecting broader tensions and debates within American society about immigration and democratic participation.
Santa Ana's decision to include this measure on the ballot reflects its unique demographic composition, with a large noncitizen population contributing to its local economy. This move underscores the city's progressive stance on immigration and civic engagement, even as it prepares for potential legal challenges and logistical hurdles.
The outcome of this vote could have far-reaching implications for noncitizen voting rights and the broader discussion on electoral reform in the United States. As the campaign unfolds, both supporters and opponents will likely intensify their efforts to sway public opinion and ensure a robust turnout for this pivotal decision in November 2024.
