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Groups decry Kan. election official’s action on citizenship proof

photo -U.S. Election Assistance Commission
photo -U.S. Election Assistance Commission

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — More than 30 advocacy groups are asking a federal elections official to withdraw changes made to a national form requiring residents of Kansas, Alabama and Georgia to provide proof of U.S. citizenship in order to register to vote.

The groups sent a letter Thursday to the new executive director of the U.S. Election Assistance Commission says the impact would be particularly significant because 2016 is a presidential election year when people typically register in greater numbers.

EAC had no immediate comment on the groups’ demand, but executive director Brian Newby has insisted the action he took at the states’ request is within his authority.

One of the agency’s own commissioners has said Newby’s action contradicts policy and precedent.

Among those signing the letter were Common Cause, Public Citizen, and NAACP.

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