Overview

• Two GOP state lawmakers filed Wednesday to qualify a 2026 ballot measure mandating proof of citizenship at registration and photo ID at polling places.
• Mail-in voters under the proposal would need to submit the last four digits of a government-issued ID, such as a Social Security number.
• Proponents led by Assemblymember Carl DeMaio say the streamlined ID checks will restore public trust after concerns over outdated voter rolls and signature reviews.
• Similar proof-of-citizenship bills have been introduced this year in 17 states as federal Republicans pursue voting-procedure reforms under President Trump’s urging.
• Civil rights groups and Democratic leaders in Sacramento have pledged litigation to block the initiative, warning it will disproportionately burden low-income and minority voters.