During a recent appearance on CNN’s NewsNight with Abby Phillip, investor and television personality Kevin O’Leary advocated for implementing voter ID laws in the United States. The February 16, 2026, discussion focused on election integrity and the recently passed SAVE Act.
O’Leary, known as “Mr. Wonderful,” from Shark Tank, argued that voter ID and proof of citizenship should be bipartisan issues. He noted that the United States lags behind other developed nations in this area.
O’Leary stated that countries in Nordic Europe, France, Switzerland, Canada, and Australia have addressed voter eligibility by requiring proof of citizenship and employing advanced technology to prevent fraud.
He observed that the United States faces recurring debates each election cycle and suggested that adopting similar measures could resolve these controversies.
The panel featured a range of perspectives. Some members raised concerns about voter suppression. O’Leary dismissed those arguments as outdated. He insisted on the need for modernization.
The SAVE Act, or Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, was a key topic in the discussion. This legislation aims to require proof of citizenship for voter registration in federal elections.
The House passed the Act on February 11, 2026, with significant Republican support. The bill also requires photo ID for voting. Supporters argue it enhances election security without placing undue burdens on voters.
Critics, including some Democrats, describe the act as a barrier to voting, claiming it could impact millions of eligible citizens. The Brennan Center for Justice has warned that it might block access for individuals lacking specific documents.
O’Leary responded by suggesting solutions such as providing free passports. He believes technology can streamline the process and ensure fairness for all voters.
During the segment, O’Leary stated, “This narrative has to be bipartisan by every metric.” He urged moving past partisan divides on this fundamental issue.
Panelist Leigh McGowan and others debated the implications. Some highlighted that voter fraud is rare according to certain studies. However, groups like the Heritage Foundation have documented instances of fraud, even if the numbers remain low.
O’Leary’s comments quickly gained traction on social media, with clips circulating on platforms such as X and Facebook. Many praised his direct and candid approach.
Conservative outlets such as PJ Media described it as O’Leary destroying the anti-SAVE Act narrative. They echoed his call for the United States to catch up with global standards.
The Yeshiva World and other sites highlighted O’Leary’s point that the United States is decades behind. This view resonates with polls showing majority support for voter ID requirements.
A CNN poll referenced in related coverage indicates that most Americans favor photo ID requirements. This includes broad cross-partisan agreement on the basic principle.
O’Leary’s background as a Canadian businessman added an international perspective to the debate. He holds dual citizenship and frequently comments on United States politics.
In previous CNN appearances, O’Leary has criticized Democratic processes. For example, he accused the party of bypassing primaries during the nomination of Kamala Harris.
Host Abby Phillip reminded him that primaries are not constitutionally mandated. This exchange underscored ongoing tensions in election discussions.
The SAVE Act now heads to the Senate. Its fate remains uncertain at this stage. Senate Republicans may push for its inclusion in broader legislation.
Senator Mike Lee has defended the Act. He says it makes voting easy but cheating hard. Democrats have expressed strong opposition to its provisions.
Representative Chip Roy has urged swift action on the bill. He frames it as a necessary combination of citizenship proof and voter ID.
PolitiFact has fact-checked related claims. Comparisons to ID requirements for buying beer have surfaced. Laws vary by state for both alcohol purchases and voting.
O’Leary’s intervention has reignited public discourse on election security. Supporters view it as simple common sense.
Opponents argue it addresses a non-issue, given the low rates of documented fraud. They point to the potential for disenfranchisement among certain groups.
The discussion also touched on global examples. Countries like India and Brazil require voter IDs. These nations manage large-scale elections with such measures in place.
O’Leary called for using advancements in technology to ensure integrity. This could include digital verification systems to make the process efficient.
As the 2026 midterms approach, voter ID remains a hot-button issue. O’Leary’s comments may help shape the ongoing debate.
Ultimately, the panel highlighted America’s divided views on elections. Yet consensus on basic safeguards appears within reach for those willing to prioritize security.
O’Leary concluded by urging everyone to “get all this crapola over with.” His blunt style resonated with many viewers who share his frustration with endless partisan arguments.
