New Hampshire must reinstate voter affidavits for citizenship proof

A federal judge has ruled that New Hampshire must reinstate voter affidavits for proving citizenship. The decision allows registrants without documentation to attest to their eligibility under oath. It marks a shift in one of the nation’s strictest voter registration laws. The ruling follows a legal challenge against New Hampshire’s previous law, which required physical proof of citizenship. Judge Landya McCafferty found that removing the affidavit option placed an unconstitutional burden on voters. She also noted that cases of noncitizens voting in the state were virtually nonexistent.

New Hampshire’s voter registration system was once among the most restrictive in the US. The latest decision does not alter other 2024 changes, such as mandatory proof of identity, age, and address on Election Day.

The American Civil Liberties Union of New Hampshire praised the outcome as a victory for eligible voters. Meanwhile, the ruling deals a blow to advocates of stricter registration rules, including supporters of President Donald Trump’s SAVE America Act.

Secretary of State David Scanlan will now reintroduce the affidavit process for those unable to provide citizenship documents. The reinstatement of voter affidavits comes amid wider debates over registration requirements and their effect on turnout. Eligible voters in New Hampshire can once again swear an oath to confirm citizenship if they lack paperwork. The change takes effect immediately, though other registration rules remain in place.