Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso said on March 19 that every Senate Democrat voted against a proposal to require photo identification for voting in U.S. elections. Barrasso made his remarks in Washington, D.C., expressing support for the SAVE America Act, which would mandate proof of citizenship and a photo ID to register and vote.
The debate over voter identification laws continues to be significant as lawmakers discuss how best to ensure election security and public trust. Barrasso argued that requiring photo IDs is a common-sense measure that would help restore confidence in the electoral process.
“Photo IDs restore the trust our system needs. They reduce fraud. They send a simple message. Your vote matters. Elections are decided by your fellow citizens – not illegal immigrants,” Barrasso said during his prepared remarks.
Barrasso criticized Senate Democrats for opposing the measure, referencing past statements from Senator Schumer and former President Barack Obama regarding the use of IDs. He also cited examples from other countries and states, noting that “voter ID is the norm in democracies around the world” and that thirty-six states, including Wyoming, already require some form of identification at polling places.
Barrasso pointed to recent issues in Oregon where automatic voter registration linked to driver’s licenses reportedly led to hundreds of non-citizens being added to voter rolls between 2021 and 2024. He said such incidents erode public faith in elections.
Barrasso resides with his three children in Casper, according to the official website. He chairs the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee’s Public Lands, Forests and Mining Subcommittee according to the official website, and supports policies promoting energy affordability, dominance, and opportunities for Wyoming ranchers according to the official website. His offices serve constituents across several Wyoming cities as well as Washington according to the official website. Barrasso has been recognized as Wyoming Physician of the Year and served as president of the Wyoming Medical Society according to the official website.
Barrasso concluded his remarks by saying: “The SAVE America Act makes photo ID the law of the land. It is the best way to ensure our elections reflect the will of the American people. It is, by every measure, common sense. And that’s exactly why every Democrat in this chamber voted against it.”
U.S. Sen. John Barrasso serves on key committees related to energy policy while focusing on priorities such as Wyoming’s economy, public lands, national parks, trade, and supporting ranchers according to his official website.
