Rep. Mia Costello: Time to clarify the rules on citizen voting for Alaskans

By REP. MIA COSTELLO

In Alaska, we take elections seriously. Our democracy only works when Alaskans trust that every ballot is lawful, every voter is qualified, and every result reflects the will of the people who live and raise families here. That’s why I introduced House Joint Resolution 19 and why I support the citizen‑only voting initiative that will be on the ballot in November.

Both have a simple purpose: to make clear that only United States citizens may vote in Alaska elections, restoring faith in our election system and enshrining the rights of our citizenry.

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Alaska law already requires voters to be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old, residents, and properly registered. The initiative and HJR 19 do not change those fundamentals; they put them beyond doubt. The constitutional amendment in HJR 19 updates our voter qualification article to say plainly that “only a citizen of the United States” may vote in any state or local election, and that “no person may vote who is not a citizen of the United States.”

At a time when some communities outside have experimented with non‑citizen voting in local races, Alaskans deserve firm protections that ensure our elections will always belong to citizens.

When we ask men and women to swear an oath and complete the naturalization process, we are asking a lot of them. In return, we promise that their vote will carry special weight in shaping the laws of this state and country. Citizen‑only voting keeps faith with that promise.

Clear rules also protect confidence in our system. When the language in law or in our constitution is vague or outdated, it leaves room for misinterpretation and legal challenges that undermine public trust. By spelling out in our constitution that only citizens may vote, we give election officials, community leaders, and voters a simple, unmistakable rule. That clarity makes our system stronger and makes it easier to explain who is eligible to participate in our elections and who is not.

Some critics claim that citizen‑only measures are political theater or an excuse to stigmatize immigrants. That is not my goal, and it should not be Alaska’s approach. Alaska is one of the most welcoming states in the country and the people who move here, whether from another state or another nation, help power our economy, strengthen our churches and civic groups, and enrich our culture. We rely on their talent, hard work, and commitment to our communities.

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My support for citizen‑only voting is a commitment to what makes being an American great. It says that the path to full participation runs through citizenship, and that when people take that step, their voice at the ballot box is honored and protected.

Alaskans are independent, but we are not indifferent. We can insist that our elections remain the responsibility of U.S. citizens and, at the same time, treat non‑citizens in our communities with respect and honesty. When you see this measure on the ballot, I hope you will join me in voting “yes” for clear rules, fair standards, and secure elections for every qualified Alaskan voter.

Rep. Mia Costello represents House District 11 in the Alaska House of Representatives.

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