Yesterday, President Biden and Vice President Harris reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the sacred right to vote. Michigan Democrats praised President Biden and Vice President Harris for their impassioned speeches, joining the rallying call for the Senate to pass the For the People Act and John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act.
Here’s what they said about the Biden-Harris administration’s leadership on voting rights:
Senator Gary Peters: “Attacks on the right to vote across the country undermine the bedrock of our democracy. We must pass voting rights legislation. If Republicans refuse to help protect our democratic institutions, Senate Democrats must act.”
Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson: “‘Will we choose democracy over autocracy, light over shadow, justice over injustice? I know where I stand. I will not yield. I will not flinch. … the question is where will the institution of the United States Senate stand?’ – @POTUS”
Congressman Dan Kildee: “‘The right to vote is precious, almost sacred. It is the most powerful nonviolent tool or instrument in a democratic society.’ – my good friend, the late John Lewis. The Senate must pass the Voting Rights Advancement Act, to protect the right to vote for all Americans.”
Congressman Andy Levin: “Across the country, 19 state legislatures have passed 34 laws with restrictive provisions, including in Michigan. To meet the urgency and gravity of the moment, a filibuster carve-out is necessary to protect our democracy and safeguard voting rights for all Americans.”
Congresswoman Haley Stevens: “State lawmakers introduced over 440 voter suppression bills in 49 states in 2021 alone. Experts predict this wave of voter suppression and election sabotage will intensify in 2022. The Senate must pass the Freedom to Vote Act and John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act now.”
Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib: “State legislatures are passing laws to diminish the political power of communities of color. Senators that refuse to act in the face of this crisis are greenlighting racist voter suppression—and saying that the voices of their constituents of color aren’t worth being heard.”
Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss: I am proud to join 150 fellow @usmayors as we urge the Senate to take action on #VotingRights.
