Proposed GOP Voting Bill Faces Criticism Over Potential Disenfranchisement of Women

The SAVE Act, aimed at preventing noncitizen voting, raises concerns about barriers for women, particularly those with name changes due to marriage.

The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act requires documentary proof of U.S. citizenship to register for federal elections, including documents like passports or birth certificates.
Critics argue the bill could disproportionately affect women, especially married women who have changed their last names, as marriage certificates and name-change documents are not explicitly accepted under the proposed law.
Studies indicate that up to 69 million voting-age women who have taken their spouse's last name could face challenges meeting the documentation requirements.
Opponents highlight that noncitizen voting is exceedingly rare, with existing laws already prohibiting it, and claim the bill creates unnecessary barriers rather than addressing meaningful election security concerns.
The SAVE Act has reignited debates over voter suppression, with some experts linking its impact to broader ideological efforts tied to Christian nationalism and patriarchal values.