A tense exchange broke out on Capitol Hill as Rep. Andy Biggs and Rep. Maxwell Frost clashed during a markup of the Equal Representation Act, a bill that would require a citizenship question on the 2030 census. Biggs began outlining his support for the legislation when Frost interrupted, sparking an immediate and sharp response. The confrontation quickly shifted the hearing’s tone, underscoring how contentious the debate over census reform has become.
According to the Daily Caller’s reporting, Biggs paused his remarks after the interruption and told Frost, “Okay, so from now on, when you are talking, I will interrupt you, okay? Is that fair?” Biggs added that Frost had refused to show basic courtesy by cutting him off before he finished speaking. The Arizona congressman continued his argument, stating that counting illegal immigrants for the purpose of apportionment inflates congressional representation for states that protect unlawful entry and undermines the principle of equal representation.
Biggs highlighted states like California — which currently holds 52 House seats — and argued that continued over-counting could give such states even greater political power at the expense of states that enforce immigration laws. Supporters of the bill say a citizenship question is necessary to ensure apportionment reflects the interests of American citizens rather than foreign nationals residing in the country unlawfully.
Critics of the legislation, including Frost, argue that adding a citizenship question would discourage participation in immigrant-heavy districts and risk undercounting legal residents. The sharp divide between the two lawmakers reflects the broader national battle over how immigration policy, census data, and political representation intersect.
The Equal Representation Act is expected to face continued debate as it moves through committee, with Republican lawmakers emphasizing constitutional representation and Democrats warning of potential chilling effects in vulnerable communities.
