CAPAC Members Recognize National Voter Registration Day

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today marks National Voter Registration Day, a nonpartisan day encouraging all eligible Americans, including Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities, to register to vote.

CAPAC Members released the following statements:

CAPAC Chair Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28):

“Today we are reminded of our sacred duty as Americans to exercise the right to vote in our nation’s elections. Recent elections have seen an incredible increase in AANHPI voter participation, which has made our communities the fastest growing racial or ethnic group in the electorate, and I am encouraged by the political impact and policy achievements AANHPIs have secured because of this crucial civic participation. However, ongoing anti-voter laws targeting communities of color and other marginalized communities in Republican-run states, such as aggressive gerrymandering, restrictive voter ID laws, polling location closures, and restrictions on early voting, continue to threaten the freedom to vote and weaken our democracy. So I urge my colleagues to come together and pass the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act to restore critical voter protections for all communities of color. And, this National Voter Registration Day, I join my fellow CAPAC members in urging Americans to engage in our civic duties by registering to vote and working together so that all Americans can access the polls easily, quickly, and free from hassle or violence.”

CAPAC First Vice-Chair Rep. Grace Meng (NY-06):

“On National Voter Registration Day, we recognize the growing power of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders as participants in our democracy. In New York and across the country, we are a deciding voice on the issues that matter most to the AANHPI community. As we look forward to the millions of Americans heading to the ballot box, I encourage everyone to make sure they are registered to vote today. To the AANHPI community, young people, Americans living abroad, and anyone who has never voted before: Your vote is your voice. Exercise your right to participate in our democracy every chance you can.”

CAPAC Second Vice-Chair Rep. Mark Takano (CA-39):

“AANHPI power has grown exponentially thanks to targeted efforts in outreach and registration to vote. On this National Voter Registration Day, I ask AANHPI communities everywhere to participate in our democratic process and make your voices heard this election year.”

CAPAC Whip Rep. Ted Lieu (CA-36):

“Voting is an investment in yourself, your community and your country. As one of the fastest growing racial and ethnic groups in the United States, Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders hold a unique power in the upcoming election. However, in 2024 alone, at least six states have enacted restrictive laws that threaten the right to vote. House Democrats have introduced vital legislation to counter these efforts, such as the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2023, aimed at restoring the full strength of the Voting Rights Act. Unfortunately, this critical bill is currently being stalled by the Republican majority. With so many pressing issues at stake – from environmental protections to reproductive rights – it is crucial that we exercise our right to vote and continue to fight for free and fair elections. Our democracy relies on us, so I urge all Americans to check their voter registration status and create a voting plan. Happy National Voter Registration Day!”

CAPAC Civil Rights & Voting Rights Task Force Chair Rep. Bobby Scott (VA-03):

“The right to vote is the cornerstone of our democracy. We must all remain active, vigilant and engaged citizens despite recent efforts to weaken our fundamental right to vote. Instead of putting up barriers that will prevent American citizens from exercising their right to vote, Congress should be focused on protecting voting rights by passing the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act and the Freedom to Vote Act. On National Voter Registration Day and as CAPAC’s Voting Rights Taskforce Chair, I stand with my colleagues in protecting voting rights for all Americans and encouraging everyone eligible to register to vote.”

Sen. Mazie K. Hirono (HI):

“Voting is a fundamental cornerstone of our democracy, and all eligible voters should exercise their constitutional right to make their voices heard at the polls. As communities across the country continue to face barriers to exercising their right to vote, I reaffirm my commitment to protecting voting rights and expanding voter participation. Today, on National Voter Registration Day, I encourage everyone to make sure they are registered to vote—your voice matters.”

Rep. Dan Goldman (NY-10):

"When we exercise our right to vote, we ensure ourselves a voice in the decisions made in and for our communities. The right to vote is the right from which every other right flows – that truth could not be more evident as this year comes to a close. On National Voter Registration Day, I encourage all Americans to ensure that they are registered to vote so that they are prepared to do so come November."

Rep. Jimmy Gomez (CA-34):

“In a healthy democracy, it's essential for as many voices as possible to be heard and reflected at the ballot box. National Voter Registration Day is a great reminder of how important the engagement and participation of AANHPI communities across our country is to our elections. Voting is an opportunity to make your voice heard and bring the issues you most care about to the forefront—it’s important not to sit out. Register yourself and encourage your friends and family to by going to vote.gov. See you at the polls!”

Rep. Ro Khanna (CA-17):

“Voting is the foundation of democracy and should be an easy and fair process for all Americans. On National Voter Registration Day, it is essential we recognize the significant barriers communities of color still face at the ballot box and the modern efforts to silence their voices through voter suppression laws. It is crucial we continue to protect and expand voting rights and ensure all Americans can safely participate in the democratic process.”

Rep. Andy Kim (NJ-03):

“National Voter Registration Day is a celebration of the very foundation of our democracy – the right to vote. This foundation, and the future of our democracy, is strongest when Americans of all backgrounds and identities participate and stay engaged. As we continue working to break down barriers to the ballot box, I hope people can celebrate today by checking their voter registration status and making sure their voice can be heard.”

Rep. Shri Thanedar (MI-13):

"The right to vote is a fundamental part of our incredible democracy. That's why I'm proud to support important legislation like the Freedom to Vote Act and the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act that protect this foundational right for every American. This National Voter Registration Day, I encourage every American to register to vote and make your voice heard."

Rep. Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07):

“The right to vote is foundational to our democratic system.  Our country is stronger when more Americans participate in our democracy and have their voices heard at the ballot box.  This National Voter Registration Day, I encourage all Americans to ensure they are registered to vote and that their voter registration is up to date.  I will continue working with my colleagues in the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus to protect the right to vote and ensure our government remains one of, by, and for the people.”