Renzi Votes to Reauthorize Voting Rights Act

Yesterday, the United States House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed bipartisan legislation reauthorizing the Voting Rights Act of 1965, by a vote of 390-33. The Fannie Lou Hamer, Rosa Parks, & Coretta Scott King Voting Rights Act Reauthorization & Amendments Act of 2006, renews the expiring provisions of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 for another 25 years.

"The Voting Rights Act of 1965 has protected minority voters, including Native Americans & Hispanics, who were historically disenfranchised through violence & intimidation or changes in voting procedures," said Congressman Renzi. "The right to vote is fundamental in a democracy, & passage of today's legislation will ensure that all Americans will continue to be protected from discriminatory practices. I am proud to have voted for this vital legislation."

"I'm excited that the House has approved this legislation. Over the years, the Voting Rights Act has benefited the Navajo Nation by protecting voters' rights by enabling the Navajo to have a strong voice on election day," said Marcus Tulley, Navajo Board of Elections Supervisor from Chinle Agency. "The Voting Rights Act allows us to convey important voting materials in our native language."