Washington, DC— Following today’s remarks by President Biden regarding voting rights and the necessity of passing the legislation currently before the Senate, including S1, the For the People Act, People for the American Way President Ben Jealous released the following statement:

“President Biden’s remarks today were a welcome affirmation and a reminder of the urgency of taking action as Republican-led voter suppression efforts continue to sweep the nation. We were pleased to hear the president push for the Senate’s passage of the For the People Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Act. Both bills will help bolster election security, limit billionaires’ ability to buy our elections, and protect our sacred right to vote. These are not partisan ideas, yet Republicans continue to stand in opposition. They have shown us that they are not willing to play by the rules of our democracy and they will do anything–including implementing laws that mirror those of the Jim Crow era–to take back power. President Biden is right: we cannot fail to get this legislation passed, whether Republicans get on board or not. Congress must do everything it can to protect voting rights and prevent states from implementing discriminatory policies, including prompt passage of the For the People Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. And if Republicans stand in the way, then the filibuster must be abolished. Let’s get this done.”

About People For the American Way

People For the American Way is a progressive advocacy organization founded to fight right-wing extremism and build a democratic society that implements the ideals of freedom, equality, opportunity and justice for all. We encourage civic participation, defend fundamental rights, and fight to dismantle systemic barriers to equitable opportunity. Learn more: https://www.pfaw.org.