Deceptive Practices and Voter Intimidation Prevention Act of 2007

Floor Speech

DECEPTIVE PRACTICES AND VOTER INTIMIDATION PREVENTION ACT OF 2007 -- (Extensions of Remarks - July 10, 2007)

* Ms. LINDA T. SÁNCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, recent elections have been marred by allegations of deceptive practices that are frequently centered in neighborhoods that have a large minority or low-income population. These communities are littered with inaccurate election information in a deliberate effort to prevent voters from casting their ballots on Election Day.

* When most people think of violations of the Voting Rights Act they envision Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the Freedom Riders. However, many don't realize that voter suppression still occurs today.

* One example of recent voter suppression hits close to home. During the 2006 election, constituents of my sister, LORETTA, were targeted. Letters were sent to individuals with Spanish surnames, written in Spanish, informing them that immigrants voting in a federal election were committing a crime ``that could result in incarceration and possible deportation...'' These letters were false. Immigrants who have become naturalized citizens have as much a right to vote as citizens who are born here. In fact, many immigrants have told me that one of the great privileges that accompanies their naturalization is the right to vote in free elections. This letter disseminated false information and ignited fear in the Hispanic community. The clear intention was to suppress the Hispanic vote.

* This is just one example--and sadly it is not an isolated incident. These types of practices still occur today, all over the country. That is why I rise in full support of H.R. 1281, the Deceptive Practices and Voter Intimidation Prevention Act of 2007 and applaud my colleagues for tackling this critical issue.

* H.R. 1281 strengthens the prohibitions on and punishments for deceptive practices that aim to keep voters away from the polls. It also requires that the Justice Department prevent and end misinformation campaigns that mislead voters and prevent them from voting.

* The right to vote is one of the most cherished rights granted to U.S. citizens. I am proud to support this bill that ensures that those who attempt to infringe on that right are stopped and punished.

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