Mazie Hirono: “The VA's Office of General Counsel provides conclusive interpretations of legal matters for the Department and assists…”

The passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 was a major turning point in our country that finally gave many previously excluded people of color real access to the polls.

It is more urgent than ever that Congress pass the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act.

That’s why Senate Democrats are here speaking out and fighting back. We know what’s at stake, and we refuse to stand by while Republicans undermine our democracy and our sacred right to vote.

I happen to be the only naturalized citizen sitting on this committee, and I am horrified by the implication that naturalized citizens basically get second-class citizenship.