Statehouse leaders from both major political parties in Iowa are mostly supportive of two proposed amendments to the Iowa Constitution that will be on the 2024 general election ballot. One proposal would allow 17-year-olds who turn 18 by the general election date to vote in the primary election and clarify that only U.S. citizens can vote in Iowa elections. The other proposal would ensure that any Iowa lieutenant governor, even one appointed by the governor, would have full authority and be next in line for succession in the executive branch.
While Iowa Republicans largely support both proposals, some Iowa Democrats have expressed reservations, particularly regarding the line of succession amendment. They are concerned that an appointed lieutenant governor could become governor without ever being elected by Iowa voters. Despite some opposition, the line of succession proposal passed in both the Iowa House and Senate.
Additionally, a proposed constitutional amendment to further clarify that only U.S. citizens can vote in Iowa elections has also garnered support, with little opposition among Statehouse leaders. This amendment would prevent any future attempts to allow non-U.S. citizens to vote in local elections, emphasizing the value of citizenship in voting rights.
Advocates for allowing noncitizens to vote in local elections argue that legal residents should have the right to vote at the local level, while opponents, including Statehouse leaders, believe voting should be limited to U.S. citizens. The proposed voting amendment only applies to state and local elections, as federal law already requires U.S. citizenship to vote in federal elections.
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