Speech #1050177647

I have introduced an amendment which bans the use of bilingual ballots in Federal elections. We know that almost 25 years ago this Congress provided for bilingual ballots. Back then our country was just beginning to see a huge influx of immigrants to our shores who wished to exercise their right to vote when they became American citizens. We need to recognize that if an individual becomes a naturalized citizen of this country. they are required to demonstrate a knowledge of English before they can achieve citizenship status. This Congress. in 1950. explicitly added a specific requirement that persons who wish to become citizens must "demonstrate an understanding of English language. including an ability to read. write. and speak words in ordinary usage in the English language." While we require individuals to learn English. bilingual ballots contradict this by allowing them to vote in their native language. a language other than the English language. We all recognize.