Kentucky Voters to Decide on Controversial Amendments Addressing Voter Citizenship and School Choice

LEXINGTON, Ky. – Kentucky voters will face two critical amendments on their ballots during the upcoming Election Day. Amendment 1 emphasizes voter citizenship, while Amendment 2 focuses on school choice.

The proposed Amendment 1 aims to ensure that only U.S. citizens are permitted to cast ballots. Supporters, including state legislators, argue that this measure adds necessary checks to the voting process. “I simply want to make sure that the guardrails in our constitution set up are followed,” stated Senator Dr. Donald Douglas, a Republican representing Nicholasville. He noted the importance of establishing clear criteria for voting eligibility.

However, this amendment has sparked considerable controversy due to outdated language included in the ballot question describing those who cannot vote as “idiots and insane persons.” Critics, including former state representative Attica Scott, contend that the existing language is unnecessary and inappropriate. “We already know the people who vote in Kentucky are people who are eligible to vote,” Scott emphasized, arguing that the provision merely reiterates what the state constitution already states.

In light of these concerns, Senator Reggie Thomas, a Democrat from Lexington, pointed out the need for a modernized approach to the language used. “I think that language is inappropriate today,” he remarked, suggesting that clarifications are warranted to align with contemporary standards.

A spokesperson for the Secretary of State confirmed the contentious wording is indeed part of the state constitution, specifically written in section 145, ratified on November 8, 1955. Senator Douglas mentioned that the legislature did not discuss altering this term during the General Assembly’s recent session. “But I have not had one person, a constituent group mention anything about it,” he added.

Opposition to Amendment 1 is gaining traction, with a group planning a news conference and rally on Monday afternoon in Frankfort to voice their concerns about the implications of the amendment and the language it employs.

With Election Day approaching, these amendments are set to play a pivotal role in shaping voting rights and educational funding in Kentucky, as citizens navigate the complexities of these issues at the polls.