Arrr! This Senate bill be makin' sure only true scallywags be counted in the census for redistrictin'!
2024-01-13
Avast ye scallywags! Sen. Bill Hagerty, a fine matey from Tennessee, be plannin' to introduce a grand legislation next week. 'Tis a clever move to add a question on the census, so these districts don't be takin' advantage o' them sneaky illegal immigrants. Arrr, shiver me timbers!
Sen. Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., is set to introduce legislation that would require a citizenship question on the census. The goal is to prevent non-citizens from being counted for congressional apportionment, especially in light of the ongoing border crisis. The proposed bill, known as the Equal Representation Act, would ask respondents whether they are citizens, resident non-citizens, or illegal immigrants. Those who are non-citizens would not be counted for redistricting purposes. This legislation would apply to the 2030 census and beyond.Republicans have long been concerned that Democrats will benefit electorally from the influx of illegal immigrants into the country. They argue that these immigrants tend to settle in liberal areas with generous social services and sanctuary policies. Former President Donald Trump had attempted to include a citizenship question on the census but was rebuked by the Supreme Court. He had considered using an executive order but ultimately the question was not included.
The issue has gained renewed attention due to the current border crisis and the significant number of migrants entering the U.S. Many of these migrants are flocking to cities like New York City, Chicago, and California. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas has revealed that over a million people have been released into the U.S., with over 85% of migrants being released into the interior. These circumstances have prompted concerns about the potential impact on congressional apportionment.
Sen. Hagerty's proposed legislation echoes similar efforts in the House by Rep. Matt Rosendale, R-Mont., who recently introduced a package of immigration-related bills. The issue of congressional apportionment and the inclusion of non-citizens in the census remains a contentious topic, with Republicans seeking to prevent what they see as potential electoral advantages for Democrats.