Washington, D.C.— U.S. Congressman Steve King released the following statement following the U.S. House vote on his amendment that would have allowed the foreign language ballot federal mandate within the Voting Rights Act to expire:

“It is crucial that all Members have the opportunity to represent the views of their constituents on this important law, which affects the very integrity of our voting process. I applaud Congressional Leadership for standing with us and holding the debate on this issue. Lifting the federal mandate simply gives localities back the power to determine if they will spend taxpayer dollars on voting materials in other languages. 

“Foreign language ballots divide our nation by language and increase the chance for error and fraud, compromising our voting process. Voters who need help in the voting booth, may bring an interpreter into the voting booth, under current federal law. Every citizen deserves to cast an informed ballot, and this is the right approach for voters who have difficulty understanding voting materials in English.

“English is the language of opportunity and America has a long, proud tradition of assimilating new immigrants. It is vital we ensure future generations will continue this tradition.”