This past Wednesday, the House rejected a funding bill that, among other things, sought to protect the integrity of our elections by requiring proof of citizenship when registering to vote. Predictably, the proposal was met with fierce opposition from the Democrats, and 14 Republicans crossed the aisle to join them, leading to the bill’s defeat by a narrow margin of 202-220. The situation leaves the nation on the brink of a government shutdown, but the larger issue is the ongoing struggle over the values that guide our nation.

At the heart of this conflict is a fundamental question: should we allow loopholes that jeopardize the security of our electoral system, or should we take common-sense steps to ensure that only American citizens are making decisions in American elections?

Voting is a Sacred Right

The right to vote is a sacred privilege granted to citizens of this great nation. The Bible calls us to be good stewards of what we have been given (1 Peter 4:10), and that includes the responsibility to guard our democratic process. Citizenship is a responsibility, and voting is a critical part of that responsibility.

The proposal to require proof of citizenship when registering to vote should not be controversial. In almost every aspect of our lives—whether applying for a job, getting a driver’s license, or even enrolling our children in school—proof of identity and residency is required. Why should voting, one of the most consequential actions an individual can take in a democracy, be any different?

Critics argue that voting by noncitizens is already illegal and rarely happens. But even one illegal vote undermines the integrity of the entire system. For many on the left, the integrity of elections seems to take a backseat to political expediency. We should not be willing to compromise on the sanctity of our elections, regardless of the number of illegal votes cast. The point is not just about preventing noncitizens from voting but about reinforcing the principle that only American citizens should be determining the course of American policy.

A Necessary Measure, Not a “Poison Pill”

Opponents of the bill, such as Los Angeles Times columnist Jackie Calmes, characterize the proposed voting reforms as a “poison pill.” They argue that these reforms are a tool for Republicans to stir up division and stall the legislative process. But let’s be clear: this is not about division; this is about the preservation of our nation’s founding principles.

In a time when political corruption, election fraud, and manipulation of electoral systems have become concerns for both sides of the aisle, this bill offers a simple solution—transparency and accountability in our voter rolls. Is that really a “poison pill,” or is it common sense?

It’s disheartening that, once again, leftist opposition to immigration reform and election security threatens to bring the government to a standstill. Instead of joining in a bipartisan effort to protect our elections, they are politicizing an issue that transcends party lines.

Fiscal Responsibility and Government Accountability

This battle comes at a critical time, just as the government faces the possibility of a shutdown due to funding disagreements. It is no secret that Washington’s fiscal irresponsibility has brought us to the brink of economic catastrophe time and time again. Republicans, with House Speaker Mike Johnson at the helm, are working diligently to pass a temporary spending bill to keep the government functioning, even as they fight to include provisions that reflect the values of their constituents.

For months, Congress has had the opportunity to craft a responsible, fiscally sound budget. Yet, as usual, we find ourselves in a last-minute scramble to avert a government shutdown. And Democrats have the audacity to accuse Republicans of playing political games? The truth is that conservatives are standing up for the issues that matter most to the American people—fiscal responsibility, national sovereignty, and election integrity.

Speaker Johnson has vowed to craft a new temporary spending bill that keeps the government running beyond October 1. This effort, paired with a call for fiscal restraint, stands in stark contrast to the Democrats’ continual push for runaway spending and a bloated government that neglects basic safeguards like ensuring only citizens vote in our elections.

Christian Stewardship and the Call for Leadership

As Christians, we are called to be responsible stewards of the blessings God has given us, including the institutions of governance. Proverbs 29:2 reminds us, “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.” Now more than ever, we need leadership that will uphold righteousness, promote fiscal responsibility, and defend the foundational principles of our republic.

A government shutdown would be unfortunate, but not as unfortunate as losing the integrity of our elections or allowing fiscal irresponsibility to destroy the future of our children and grandchildren. House Republicans must continue to stand firm in their defense of election integrity and fiscal responsibility, despite the opposition they face from both Democrats and some Republicans who have lost sight of these crucial principles.

In the coming weeks, as Speaker Johnson leads the charge to prevent a government shutdown, let’s pray that our leaders will make wise decisions rooted in the values of responsibility, stewardship, and truth. Only then can we hope to preserve the blessings of liberty for future generations.

Conclusion

The fight over this funding bill is not just about temporary budgets and stop-gap measures. It is a broader battle over the direction of this nation. Will we prioritize the security of our elections and the responsible stewardship of our resources, or will we allow political gamesmanship to weaken the very foundations of our republic?

We must remain vigilant in this fight, advocating for policies that honor God and protect the freedoms we hold dear. By doing so, we can help ensure that the United States remains a beacon of freedom, democracy, and righteousness in an increasingly turbulent world.