Operation Protect the Vote: Justice Department arrests 2 dozen in California sweep targeting alleged noncitizen voters

Statewide arrests announced

The Justice Department said the operation involved the four U.S. attorneys’ offices in California and was intended as a statewide show of force. Those arrested are lawful permanent residents, the department said, rather than citizens eligible to vote.

The charges include making false statements on naturalization applications and submitting fraudulent voter registrations. The article says authorities allege the people illegally registered and voted in U.S. elections.

In Commerce, a city in Los Angeles County, federal agents arrested a man at his home. He was handcuffed while wearing pajamas and taken into federal custody downtown; neighbors questioned the number of armed officers and the use of handcuffs.

Dispute over voter rolls

The arrests came as tensions grow between the federal government and California over voter rolls. Last week, the Justice Department sued the state, seeking to stop it from counting mail ballots from people federal authorities identified as “likely” noncitizens until their immigration status is confirmed.

On Friday, the department warned state election officials that knowingly processing or tabulating ballots cast by noncitizens could lead to investigation and potential prosecution. It said officials who knowingly count such ballots risk aiding and abetting a federal crime.

Requests for comment sent to the California secretary of state, attorney general and governor’s office on Monday were not immediately returned. Logan said his office was focused on a fair and secure election and noted that Election Day was 18 days away.

Election misconduct figures

A Justice Department official defended the right to vote, saying, “The right to vote is critical. It’s the foundation of our system of government.” The official added that noncitizen voting would dilute citizens’ votes.