State Representative David H. Zimmerman | Pennsylvania 99th Legislative District
State Representative David H. Zimmerman | Pennsylvania 99th Legislative District
Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania has announced a new policy that automatically registers individuals to vote when they obtain or renew their driver's license or state identification. This move has sparked criticism from some quarters, notably from Representative Dave Zimmerman, who represents parts of Lancaster and Berks counties.
Zimmerman expressed his concerns in a statement, suggesting that the automatic voter registration could serve as "a gateway for illegal aliens to vote." He questioned the consistency of Shapiro's stance on voter identification, pointing out that while voters are registered automatically through state-issued IDs, there is opposition to requiring these IDs at polling stations.
He further argued that sanctuary cities have been issuing driver's licenses and state identifications to undocumented immigrants. According to Zimmerman, this practice could potentially allow non-citizens access to voting rights, which he emphasized should be reserved for American citizens only.
Zimmerman also raised doubts about the timing of Shapiro's decision, noting its proximity to upcoming elections. He suggested it reflects underlying political motives by the governor and his party. Additionally, Zimmerman criticized Shapiro for not fulfilling campaign promises related to Lifeline Scholarships and accused him of yielding to pressure from teachers' unions.
The debate over automatic voter registration highlights ongoing tensions regarding voting rights and election integrity in Pennsylvania.
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