(WCIV) — Voters in South Carolina have shown strong support for a significant change in the state constitution regarding voting rights. During recent elections, a large majority backed a proposal to specify that only U.S. citizens who are registered can participate in elections.
Currently, the constitution states that “every citizen” of the United States can vote if registered. However, the new measure proposes replacing “every” with “only,” making it clear that noncitizens are not permitted to vote.
Preliminary results from the Associated Press indicate that around 86% of South Carolina voters said “yes” to this ballot initiative on election day. Before it can officially revise the constitution, this measure still needs a final nod from the General Assembly.
Importantly, there is no data showing that noncitizens have voted in large numbers in South Carolina elections. Those opposing the measure, including some Democrats and advocacy groups, point out that noncitizens are already prohibited from voting in federal elections and can only participate in local elections in a few cities.
This change in language reflects a national trend. South Carolina was one of eight states presenting similar ballot measures during the 2024 election, along with Iowa, Kentucky, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, and Wisconsin. Six other states have already adopted such changes.
