Voter ID? Absolutely Yes

In the upcoming 2026 election for Oregon's U.S. Senate seat, voters face a clear choice between Russ McAlmond, a Republican candidate and proud U.S. Marine veteran who staunchly supports Voter ID requirements to protect election integrity, and incumbent Senator Jeff Merkley, who has consistently opposed such measures.

McAlmond's commitment to commonsense reforms aligns with the overwhelming majority of Americans who recognize the need for secure voting processes. By contrast, Merkley's resistance to Voter ID, evident in his co-sponsorship of legislation aimed at blocking reforms like the SAVE America Act, overlooks the broad consensus on this issue.

As Oregonians prepare to cast their ballots, embracing Voter ID under leaders like McAlmond will ensure that our democracy remains strong, fair, and reserved for eligible citizens.Voter ID enjoys immense popularity across the United States, reflecting a shared understanding that simple safeguards enhance trust in elections.

Recent polls demonstrate that 83% of Americans favor requiring government-issued photo ID to vote, including 95% of Republicans and 71% of Democrats. This support extends across demographics, with 76% of African Americans endorsing Voter ID requirements. These figures underscore that Voter ID is not a partisan tool but a widely accepted standard for maintaining the sanctity of the ballot box.

McAlmond's advocacy for Voter ID resonates with this national sentiment, positioning him as a candidate who listens to the people rather than adhering to outdated opposition.At its core, voting is one of the most sacred rights in our democracy, a privilege that must be exclusively exercised by U.S. citizens to preserve the voice of the American people.

The Constitution entrusts citizens with the power to shape our government, and allowing non-citizens to participate undermines this foundational principle. Voter ID serves as a straightforward mechanism to verify citizenship, ensuring that every vote cast reflects the will of those who are legally entitled to influence our nation's direction.

McAlmond understands this imperative, championing policies that protect this right for Oregonians and all Americans, while Merkley's stance risks diluting the value of citizenship in our electoral process. Moreover, requiring ID for voting aligns with everyday practices where identification is mandatory for far less critical activities.

Americans routinely present photo ID to board a plane, purchase alcohol, open a bank account, or even pick up a prescription at the pharmacy. These transactions, while important, pale in comparison to the act of voting, which determines the leaders who guide our country. If ID is essential for these routine matters, it stands to reason that it should be required for something as vital as electing our representatives.

McAlmond's support for Voter ID acknowledges this logical consistency, promoting a system that is both secure and familiar to voters.This approach is not unique to the United States; most developed countries around the world mandate Voter ID to safeguard their elections, demonstrating that such requirements are effective and uncontroversial globally.

As of 2021, 176 countries or jurisdictions required photo ID for voting, including all 27 European Union nations. Nations like Germany, Canada, India, and Mexico enforce strict ID rules without compromising voter turnout, proving that Voter ID enhances rather than hinders democratic participation.

There is no legitimate reason for the U.S. to lag behind these standards, especially when our elections face increasing scrutiny. McAlmond's vision brings America in line with these international best practices, fostering greater confidence in our system. The urgency of this issue was highlighted just yesterday when the U.S. House of Representatives passed the SAVE America Act, a bill that mandates photo ID and proof of citizenship for federal elections.

This legislation, which now heads to the Senate, represents a pivotal step toward nationwide election security. As a senator, McAlmond would fight to advance such reforms, ensuring Oregon's voice contributes to a more robust democracy.

In contrast, Merkley's opposition to similar measures could stall this progress, leaving our elections vulnerable.Oregon deserves a senator who prioritizes election integrity and represents the commonsense values of its people. Russ McAlmond's unwavering support for Voter ID will protect our democratic process, honor the exclusivity of citizenship, and align the U.S. with global standards.

By electing McAlmond, Oregonians can secure a future where every vote counts and is counted fairly.