Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) participated in a Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing for three Department of Justice nominees: Harmeet Dhillon for Assistant Attorney General of the Civil Rights Division, Aaron Reitz for Assistant Attorney General of the Office of Legal Policy, and John Sauer for Solicitor General.
During the hearing, Senator Britt voiced her support for Aaron Reitz, commending his professional experience and dedication. She highlighted his service in the U.S. Marine Corps and his tenure working for Senator Ted Cruz, noting the demands of such a role and his effectiveness in carrying out his responsibilities.
Britt also questioned Harmeet Dhillon on election integrity, specifically the verification of citizenship in voter registration for federal elections. She emphasized Alabama’s commitment to voter accessibility while ensuring election security. “We want to make sure that every citizen [has access to vote],” Britt stated, referencing measures such as free voter ID programs. She also stressed the importance of protecting votes from being diluted by ineligible participants.
Senator Britt discussed her intent to reintroduce the Citizen Ballot Protection Act, legislation aimed at allowing states to require proof of citizenship in certain voter registration processes. She argued that many Americans would be surprised to learn that states currently face legal obstacles in enforcing such requirements.
Dhillon acknowledged Britt’s concerns and noted that while the National Voter Registration Act does not explicitly prohibit proof-of-citizenship requirements, court rulings have limited states’ ability to enforce them. She suggested that strengthening election integrity could improve voter confidence and participation.
Britt also raised concerns about antisemitism in the United States, particularly on college campuses following the October 7th attacks on Israel. She referenced her open letter to Jewish college students in 2024 and highlighted the need for stronger federal action against antisemitic incidents. She asked Dhillon whether she would commit to using a newly established task force to address these issues and ensure the enforcement of civil rights protections.
Dhillon affirmed that addressing campus antisemitism would be a priority for her if confirmed. “It is very important and crucial that the Civil Rights Division step up to defend students on campus,” she stated, citing the broader implications of failing to protect Jewish students from harassment.
The hearing provided an opportunity for lawmakers to evaluate the nominees’ positions on key legal and civil rights issues. The Judiciary Committee will continue deliberations before advancing the nominations to the full Senate for consideration.
