They've Banned Voter Registration at Citizenship Ceremonies

Our movement is suing to stop this abuse of power - and others like it.

Imagine waiting years, spending thousands, following all the rules to finally become an American citizen. When the day arrives, you take the oath surrounded by family and friends, and you’re officially an American.

And then, for more than a century, someone hands you a voter registration form. Until now… since it has been banned by the Administration.

No, I’m not kidding — but then, so little is surprising anymore.

In August, the Trump administration quietly banned nonpartisan groups from helping new citizens register to vote at naturalization ceremonies. Groups like the staunchly non-partisan League of Women Voters — who’ve done this work since 1920 — are now locked out of federal buildings where these ceremonies happen.

The excuse? The Administration claims that ensuring such groups are “nonpartisan” is just too great a “burden” to bear.

The League has spent 105 years proving they’re nonpartisan. They’ve registered millions of new Americans without favoring any party. Yet, that track record is now being conveniently ignored.

The Real Cost

In 2024 alone, the League helped 122,141 new citizens register to vote — about 8% of all new citizens that year. Since the ban, they’ve had to cancel 166 planned events. That’s roughly 10,000 new voters who won’t get the help they need.

In places like Charleston, SC (among many others), the League was the only organization providing this help. Now, it’s nobody.

The Administration claims state election officials will fill the gap. But in reality, most don’t have the staff or budget to attend hundreds of ceremonies.

Why We’re Fighting

Our strategic litigation partner Campaign Legal Center (CLC) filed a lawsuit arguing this ban violates the Constitution on two fronts:

First Amendment: The government can’t silence political speech. Helping someone register to vote is political speech. Banning nonpartisan groups while allowing government officials is discrimination.

Administrative Procedure Act: Federal agencies can’t just change major rules overnight. They have to give notice, ask for comments, and explain their reasoning. The Administration did none of that.

What Makes This Different

When you support Bright America, you’re directly funding this lawsuit, and others pushing back on unprecedented abuses of power. You’re not watching from the sidelines — you’re in the game.

This lawsuit is winnable. The law is on our side. The Constitution is on our side. And we must ensure the legal team has the resources to see it through.

Your Move

Democracy isn’t a spectator sport. Every dollar you contribute funds the lawyers who’ll stand in court and argue that silencing voter registration groups violates everything America stands for.

This isn’t just about stopping a bad policy. It’s about what kind of country we want to be. One that welcomes new citizens and helps them participate? Or one that puts up barriers on day one?

We know what we’re fighting for. Are you ready to join with us?