DOJ demands California segregate noncitizen ballots
California Officials Push Back on DOJ's Ballot Segregation Demand
California election officials are frustrated by DOJ demands to sequester ballots from suspected noncitizens, citing concerns over data accuracy and potential voter disenfranchisement.
California election officials are frustrated by DOJ demands to sequester ballots from suspected noncitizens, citing concerns over data accuracy and potential voter disenfranchisement. The federal government claims noncitizen voting is rare and seeks to verify citizenship, but local officials question the reliability of the lists provided.
The DOJ's actions are part of ongoing litigation and stem from concerns over election security. The department claims approximately 20,000 mail-in ballots were sent to suspected noncitizens in California. Officials in counties like Contra Costa have stated they cannot comply with the demand due to the lack of actionable information and the need to adhere to state and federal laws. The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals has ordered California to respond to the DOJ's emergency request ahead of a scheduled hearing.