The National Bar Association expresses disappointment over Congress’ failure to pass the John Lewis Voting Rights Act
Named in honor of Civil Rights legend, the late Rep. John Lewis, the John Lewis Voting Rights Act endeavors to fight voter suppression and provide modern day updates to the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Although GOP Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska crossed the aisle and voted with Democrats in favor of the bill, the bill would have needed the support of at least 10 Republicans to pass which was not expected. The final vote tally was 50 to 49, causing the bill to fail to pass the Senate.
The right to vote is a civil right that must be protected and should be accessible to all Americans without barriers. Just weeks ago, Congress also failed to pass the Freedom to Vote Act, and this is yet another devastating blow to democracy. Voting rights should not be a partisan issue, and we must continue to fight to ensure that every American has a clear path to the ballot box to exercise their civil right to vote.
Carlos Moore, President of the National Bar Association noted, “The Senate’s antiquated filibuster must not stand in the way of progress, strengthening voting rights, and fostering greater access to the polls. I hereby call for the abolishment of the filibuster and for a revote. It’s clear that a majority of the senators and even the vice president are in favor of the passage of the John Lewis Voting Rights Act. Let’s not let a relic of slavery and white supremacy impede progress.”
The National Bar Association has previously conducted Voter Protection Training to deputize boots on the ground on Election Day with addressing voting issues, has advocated for Voting Rights at all levels, and will continue to use its platform, network, and resources to aid in the passage of progressive voting rights legislation.
About the National Bar Association
The National Bar Association was founded in 1925 and is the nation’s oldest and largest national network of predominantly African-American attorneys and judges. It represents the interests of approximately 65,000 lawyers, judges, law professors, and law students. The NBA is organized around 23 substantive law sections, 10 divisions, 12 regions, and 80 affiliate chapters throughout the United States and around the world.
