A recent announcement by Governor Greg Abbott revealed that over 1 million names have been removed from Texas state voter rolls, representing a little over 5% of the total. The removal is part of efforts to combat alleged “illegal voting,” a claim without substantial evidence. Critics argue that this purge disproportionately affects minority groups.
Despite regular voter roll maintenance requirements since 1993, the portrayal of this process as a defense against illegal voting erodes trust in the electoral system. Data shows that a minimal percentage of those removed had any significant voting history.
The emphasis on voter fraud, largely unsupported by evidence, has intensified in recent years, leading to controversial actions like house searches of political organizers. This has sparked concerns about voter intimidation.
The narrative of illegal voting has historical roots in voter suppression, and recent events have brought it back into the spotlight. While claims of widespread fraud persist, concrete evidence is scarce.
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