Opinion: National Voter Registration Day provides a call to advance voting rights for more qualified Americans

To learn more about registering to vote, where to vote, what’s on your ballot, and more, go to MyVote.WI.gov.

Growing up in a rural, conservative town, I had limited opportunities to express my political beliefs. However, I always held on to the hope that, when I turned 18, I could express my voice more freely in our nation’s most vital institution: our democracy. As I prepare to vote in my first federal election, I still hold onto that same appreciation.

The right to vote is a cornerstone of hope for all Americans. It allows us to shape the future we want. The arrival of National Voter Registration Day on September 17 is a reminder of how important it is that we continue to work to protect this freedom.

After being convicted of a felony in Nebraska, my uncle lost his right to vote in Nebraska. Since then, he has served his time, earned a Ph.D., and he now teaches as an adjunct professor at the University of Nebraska-Omaha. His journey is a powerful story of redemption, showcasing the resilience of the American spirit. Yet, he remained unable to exercise the fundamental right to vote for nearly two years. While there have been legislative efforts to repeal Nebraska’s two-year waiting period and provide for the automatic restoration of voting rights upon completion of sentence, there have been legal challenges, leaving uncertain the rights of those returning back to society.

This shows the need to create federal safeguards protecting the right to vote. Two key pieces of legislation in Congress offer a path forward: the Freedom to Vote Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. Together, these bills form a comprehensive package that ensure every voter can cast their ballot without fear of suppression, intimidation, or harassment. For my generation, these bills represent the preservation of democracy as we grow older, start families, and advance in our careers. They embody the essential principle that no matter your background, everyone deserves a voice in American democracy.

In addition to safeguarding voter rights, these bills work to reverse harmful practices that disenfranchise millions of Americans. They would end partisan gerrymandering, restore voting rights to individuals with prior felony convictions, and expand access to voter registration. Most importantly, they would ensure that people like my uncle can finally exercise their fundamental right to vote.

Our leaders must recognize that democracy isn’t something you can pick and choose from—rights cannot be denied simply because of political disagreements or preferences. The right to vote should be a shared value, championed by people from all political backgrounds. That’s the American way.

Senator Tammy Baldwin understands this and has been working diligently to pass the Freedom to Vote Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. As we observe National Voter Registration Day, we should reflect on the history of voting rights in our country and recognize that we are writing our own chapter in this history. The right to vote must be freely exercised by all, without restrictions. While it may be politically tempting to limit or deny this right for short-term gain, history has shown that democracy holds everyone accountable in the end. 

I ask all of my fellow students to join me in marking National Voter Registration Day by registering to vote, or confirming their registration as the election approaches.