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New Haven Mayor Wants Illegals To Vote In Local Elections

NEW HAVEN, CT (WCBS 880) - One Connecticut mayor is asking the legislature to allow illegal immigrants to vote in local elections.

WCBS 880 Connecticut Bureau Chief Fran Schneidau On The Story

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Mayor John DeStefano argues that illegal immigrants who live in New Haven pay local taxes and their kids go to school in the city. That's why he believes these city residents deserve the right to vote on local issues.

He'll submit his bill to state law makers, but St. Sen. Andrew Roraback, a Republican on the Judiciary Committee, vows to fight it tooth and nail.

"No right is more cherished and more valued than the right to vote, and for us even contemplating extending that right to people who have come to this country unlawfully, is un-American, unpatriotic and unacceptable," said Roraback.

Mayor DeStefano says other cities, Chicago for example, have extended this right to illegal immigrants. He believes voting on local matters allows residents to become more engaged in their community.

Roraback realizes that Democrats hold the majority in both chambers and concedes if the proposal could pass.

Do you think illegal immigrants should have the right to vote in local elections? Sound off in the comments section below.

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