DOJ orders some California counties to verify ballots in 48 hours

As of October 24, 2026, the Trump administration’s Department of Justice (DOJ) is escalating its efforts to combat alleged noncitizen voting in California by demanding that local officials set aside and verify ballots from individuals it suspects are not U.S. citizens. The DOJ sent letters on Friday to county registrars across California, instructing them to identify suspected "noncitizen" voters within 48 hours and isolate their ballots. This move is part of a broader legal battle initiated earlier this month when the federal government sued Los Angeles County and the California Secretary of State’s office, aiming to block them from counting votes cast by approximately 20,000 people deemed "likely" noncitizens.

The letters represent an escalation in a conflict that has been building over the past weeks, with the DOJ arguing that these measures are necessary to ensure election integrity and prevent voter fraud. However, critics argue that illegal voting by non-citizens is exceedingly rare and unlikely to impact election outcomes. Despite this dispute, federal prosecutors have warned local officials of potential legal repercussions if they fail to comply.

The situation highlights growing tensions between the federal government under President Trump and California authorities over election administration. A hearing on the lawsuit is scheduled for Tuesday, while the Trump administration has appealed to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals for a ruling before the November 3 midterm elections.

This intervention has raised concerns among voting rights advocates about potential interference with voter turnout and the integrity of electoral processes in California and beyond. The DOJ’s actions reflect a broader national debate over election security measures versus safeguards against disenfranchisement.