Hear what John Lewis told Dana Bash about the Voting Rights Act in 2018
CNN
Last updated: May 1, 2026
Civil rights leader and former Congressman John Lewis discussed the Voting Rights Act with CNN's Dana Bash in 2018. The conversation focused on the state of voting rights in the United States and the ongoing challenges to access.
In the 2018 interview, John Lewis reflected on the historical significance of the Voting Rights Act and its impact on American democracy. He emphasized that the fight for voting rights was far from over, highlighting persistent efforts to suppress the vote. Lewis expressed concern about decisions that weakened the Act, such as the Supreme Court's Shelby County v. Holder ruling in 2013. He argued that this ruling had emboldened states to enact restrictive voting laws, disproportionately affecting minority communities. Lewis underscored the importance of voter registration and participation, urging citizens to remain vigilant and engaged. He drew parallels between the struggles of the Civil Rights Movement and the contemporary challenges faced by voters. The conversation served as a stark reminder of the ongoing need to protect and expand voting access for all Americans. Lewis's words underscored the fragility of voting rights and the necessity of continued activism to safeguard democratic principles.
