Newsmakers: Rep. Freiberg Raises Concerns About Proposed Federal Election Law Changes

Rep. Mike Freiberg, DFL-Golden Valley, told CCX News on “Newsmakers” that several proposed federal changes could affect how Minnesotans vote.

Those potential changes include new requirements for proof of citizenship and restrictions on mail-in voting.

“We have safe and secure elections already in Minnesota,” said Freiberg. “Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon does a great job of making sure our laws are enforced and that as many people as possible are able to vote legally. You know it’s no coincidence that we have the highest voter turn out in the country.” 

Freiberg expressed concerns over the proposed SAVE Act, which would require people to show proof of citizenship before voting.

“Basically anybody who has ever changed their name on their birth certificate, and it may not match their Social Security Card and they don’t have a passport might find it impossible to vote,” said Freiberg. 

Freiberg also said restricting mail-in voting could impact absentee voting.

“We have no-excuse absentee voting in Minnesota and a lot of people vote by mail and it’s very convenient,” said Freiberg. “Since COVID, we’ve seen the numbers increase extensively.”

The executive order regarding mail-in ballots is facing legal challenges and the SAVE Act is still in the legislative process.  

Golden Valley

Newsmakers