We must end filibuster to protect voting rights

A strong democracy depends on free, fair and accessible elections. Voting rights are at the heart of our American democracy. Our country stands or falls on the right of voters in every state to be heard at the ballot box.

The League of Women Voters works to protect the rights of voters and defend democracy. In 2021, the Senate introduced two important pieces of voting rights legislation. The Freedom to Vote Act will remove barriers to voting, tackle dark money's influence in our elections and combat discriminatory gerrymandering. The John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act will protect against the discriminatory voting laws that are rapidly being enacted across our country.

Voting rights legislation has been blocked in the Senate for months thanks to the filibuster. The filibuster rule means 60 or more votes are needed to pass most bills. We ask you to call the White House and urge the Biden-Harris Administration to continue pushing to change the Senate's filibuster rules, as well as support the Freedom to Vote Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. Additionally, please contact Sen. Durbin and Sen. Duckworth and state that they must defend our democracy by fixing or setting aside the filibuster for this pivotal legislation.

Finally, please thank both senators for their support of national voting rights legislation.

These two bills represent the best defense of our democracy and American values. Together, they put power where it belongs - in the hands of American voters.

Now our legislators need to hear from us. Please join us in making these calls today.

Roberta Borrino and Sue Coleman, Co-Presidents

League of Women Voters of Roselle-Bloomingdale