Argument for
By John Coghill Jr., Former Senator; Charles M. Chenault, Former Speaker of the House; Joshua C. Revak, Former Alaska State Senator
no rhetorical technique found
What is Ballot Measure 25USCV? Ballot Measure 25USCV is a citizens’ initiative that would add clarity to Alaska law by stating that only United States citizens may be qualified voters in Alaska elections. Current law says citizens may vote, but it does not specifically state that only citizens may vote. This measure closes that gap and makes Alaska law unmistakably clear.
It does not change who is a U.S. citizen or affect federal immigration law. It clarifies Alaska election law so it reflects what most voters already understand: when Alaskans cast ballots for local, state, or federal offices, they are participating in a uniquely American act of self-government reserved for citizens. What will Ballot Measure 25USCV do?
If approved, this measure will write into law that voter qualification in Alaska is limited to U.S. citizens, while keeping existing protections against discrimination on the basis of race, gender, religion, or disability. The initiative does not change registration procedures for eligible citizens.
It clarifies that non-citizens, even if lawfully present, may not register or vote in state or local elections. Ballot Measure 25USCV also helps ensure that Alaska’s election system remains straightforward and easier to run.
Clear standards reduce confusion at the Division of Elections, the DMV, and other agencies that help register voters, and they make it less likely that ineligible individuals will be accidentally added to the rolls. What will voting YES on Ballot Measure 25USCV do? A YES vote will affirm that Alaskans want to keep voting a core right and responsibility of citizenship.
Around the country, a growing number of cities have begun allowing certain non-citizens to vote in local elections, creating confusion and controversy about who should participate in choosing community leaders and passing laws. By passing 25USCV, Alaska will make clear that it is not going down that path. Voting YES will also give clearer guidance to election officials and potential voters.
When the rule is simple — you must be a U.S. citizen to vote — people are less likely to make honest mistakes, and the state is better able to maintain accurate voter lists. Vote YES to Protect the Integrity of Alaska’s Elections Alaskans are proud of a tradition of civic participation, close-knit communities, and competitive elections decided by small margins.
Public confidence that every legal vote counts — and that only legal votes count — is essential. Ballot Measure 25USCV strengthens that confidence by confirming in law that Alaska elections are for U.S. citizens, while leaving intact all of the ways eligible Alaskans can register and vote. This initiative also honors the path of legal immigration and citizenship.
It supports immigrants who work hard to become U.S. citizens and then fully earn the right to vote.
From elections.alaska.gov, the official voter guide.