O'Leary Calls for Stricter Voter Eligibility Requirements

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Investor and television personality Kevin O'Leary is weighing in on the national debate over voter eligibility, arguing that the United States is behind other nations when it comes to safeguarding elections. O'Leary stated that "You must be a citizen to vote, every country has figured this out... pass the act," calling for stricter verification measures to ensure only eligible citizens cast ballots.

Why it matters

The issue of voter eligibility requirements has become a flashpoint in Congress, with lawmakers debating proposals aimed at tightening federal voting requirements. Supporters argue that verifying eligibility protects election integrity and boosts public confidence, while critics maintain that voter fraud is rare and additional hurdles could discourage lawful voters from participating.

The details

O'Leary suggested that many other nations have long implemented systems requiring proof of citizenship or voter identification, framing the issue as common-sense election security rather than partisan politics. Supporters of voter ID laws argue that the practice is standard in many parts of the world and should be applied consistently in U.S. federal elections. However, civil rights groups argue that additional hurdles may discourage lawful voters from participating.

• O'Leary made the comments in a statement circulating online on February 17, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The debate over how to balance election security with voter access is expected to remain front and center as lawmakers consider potential changes ahead of future election cycles.