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SB 1825

Election Laws - As introduced, prohibits a person from qualifying as a candidate in a primary election for federal office who holds dual citizenship or is not a natural-born citizen of the United States. - Amends TCA Title 2.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Brent Taylor

Tennessee bill prohibits dual citizens and non-natural-born citizens from qualifying as federal primary election candidates, potentially conflicting with constitutional authority over federal elections.

Placed on Senate State and Local Government Committee calendar for 3/25/2026
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1825

Legislative bill overview

SB 1825 would prohibit individuals with dual citizenship or those who are not natural-born U.S. citizens from qualifying as candidates in federal primary elections in Tennessee. The bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated Title 2, which governs elections, and would create a state-level eligibility requirement beyond federal constitutional standards.

Why is this important

Federal candidacy eligibility is governed by the U.S. Constitution, which requires presidents to be natural-born citizens but does not restrict dual citizenship or apply this requirement to congressional candidates. If enacted, this bill would create a state-specific primary barrier that could conflict with federal law and constitutional authority, potentially affecting who can run for Senate and House seats. This raises questions about state versus federal power over election rules and could impact immigrant communities and naturalized citizens seeking political office.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional authority: States have limited power to add eligibility requirements beyond those in the U.S. Constitution; this bill may exceed Tennessee's authority and face legal challenges
  • Dual citizenship impact: Many U.S. citizens hold dual citizenship legally; the prohibition could exclude otherwise eligible candidates without clear policy justification
  • Congressional candidates: The natural-born citizen requirement applies only to presidents constitutionally, making this restriction novel for Senate and House races
  • Enforcement complexity: Determining and verifying citizenship status would require new administrative processes and documentation requirements

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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