Wyoming has become the first state in the United States to require proof of citizenship for residents to register to vote. This measure, which will take effect in July 2025, will apply to all elections: local, state, and federal.
Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon allowed the voter residency bill to become law without his signature.
While Gordon did not veto the legislation, his decision to refrain from signing it reflects his neutral stance on a law focused on verifying voter eligibility.
«I am a strong supporter of the idea that citizens should be residents of Wyoming for a considerable period of time before being allowed to participate in our elections (it took me eighteen years), » Gordon said.
Additionally, I have expressed concern over the vagueness of some terms in the law, such as the possibility of rejecting a vote for “any indication” of an issue with registration documentation. This could be difficult for county clerks to apply as there is no clear standard.
Gordon also anticipated that the law would likely lead to litigation. However, he has acknowledged that the legislation grants the Secretary of State the authority to regulate voter identification, something he had unsuccessfully attempted last year.
This legislation is another step toward improving election integrity in the state, aligning with Republican policies aimed at ensuring voters are properly established in Wyoming.
Hellbound and Down 