Texas Democrats hold blockade of 2:55 vote bill
(CNN) -
This Sunday, Senator Bernie Sanders was open to the proposal of the senator of West Virginia, Joe Manchin, to modify the electoral legislation that is being debated in Congress.
"It seems I'm open to doing everything I can to protect America's democracy," said Sanders, a Vermont independent who joins the Democrats, when CNN's Dana Bash asked him on "State of the Union" if supported Manchin's proposal.
"We are going to do our best […] I like what the House [of Representatives], HR 1, approved."
Sanders told Bash that he considers the House bill a "serious and comprehensive effort to protect America's democracy," adding, "We'll see how it evolves here in the Senate."
ANALYSIS |
Trump advances dangerous disinformation campaign as more states move to restrict voting
The US Senate is preparing to vote on whether to advance the legislation on voting, the so-called "For the People Act", in its current form, which lacks Republican support and does not reach the 60 votes necessary to be approved.
Last week, Manchin left open the option that he could support a modified bill after previously opposing the drafted legislation.
He was open to endorsing several of the provisions of the bill, such as declaring Election Day a public holiday, extending early voting to a minimum of 15 consecutive days, and banning party manipulation.
But in exchange for his crucial support, Manchin wants to demand a voting ID that includes a utility bill as an alternative.
Many progressives consider this requirement to be discriminatory to racial minorities, but Republicans consider it essential to avoid potential electoral fraud.
advertising
In Georgia, Democratic candidate Stacey Abrams denounces suppression of votes
The compromise effort was endorsed by voting rights advocate Stacey Abrams.
Manchin has long said he believes that any change of this magnitude must also have the backing of Republicans.
To try to convince Republicans to back a joint effort, he held a video conference with several senators from the Republican Party, although the prospects of getting 60 votes in the Senate, which is divided at 50%, are extremely difficult.
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell criticized the plan and indicated that Republicans would not support the proposal.
–CNN's Daniela Diaz, Alex Rogers and Manu Raju contributed to this report.
Bernie Sanders Bill Votes