Former First Lady Michelle Obama has called on some of her friends to push forth a revolutionary voting rights act. Joining Obama, Chris Paul, Stephen Curry, Carmelo Anthony, DJ Khaled, John Legend and several others have signed a letter advocating for the passage of the “For The People” act.
“This bill is not about choosing one party or one issue over another,’’ the letter reads.
“It is about commonsense reforms and best practices that make our democracy more open, more fair, and more inclusive. It is about reaffirming our founding principle that we can chart our own course as a nation.”
If passed, the “For The People” act could restore voting rights to those convicted of felonies and turn Election Day into a national holiday. It would also ban patrician gerrymandering.
“The For the People Act is about moving closer to the [country] we aspire to be—a land of opportunity where every voice is heard and valued,” the letter adds.
Senate Democrats have opted to move forward with the legislation. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said that it was a top priority for Congress. However, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell has said that the bill is a “solution in search of [a] problem.” He also argues that the bill is not needed because “states are not engaging in trying to suppress voters whatsoever.” Several voting rights activists have pushed back against these claims, citing changes to voting laws during the Trump administration.
The #ForThePeopleAct is a chance to reaffirm that in America, the power rests with the people. It’s our best chance in a generation to protect and strengthen our democracy. So I hope you’ll join me and the @WhenWeAllVote team in supporting this bill: https://t.co/B9VWfEI0LJ pic.twitter.com/D9BGHGPKdd
— Michelle Obama (@MichelleObama) March 23, 2021
