This week the House of Representatives passed the Equal Representation Act, which would require the inclusion of a citizenship question in the decennial census, and exclude noncitizens when apportioning congressional districts.
Central to the founding principles of our nation is the concept that every citizen's voice should be heard, and every vote should count equally. However, the presence of over 22 million noncitizens residing in the United States poses a challenge to this principle. While these individuals cannot vote in federal elections, their presence significantly impacts the apportionment of congressional districts. Some states have disproportionately higher shares of noncitizens, leading to potential dilution of the principal of equal representation.
As we look ahead to the 2030 decennial census and beyond, it is imperative that we take proactive steps to uphold the principle of equal representation. By passing this bill, Congress can reaffirm its commitment to ensuring fair and accurate representation for all citizens of the United States.
I am proud to say I voted 'yes' on this bill. The Equal Representation Act will protect the voices of American citizens by ensuring they are properly represented on the federal level.