DOJ sues Alabama, state's top election official for allegedly purging noncitizen voters too close to election
SUMMARY
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed a lawsuit against Alabama and its Secretary of State, Wes Allen, claiming the removal of voters with noncitizen identification numbers from the election rolls violated federal law. Allen identified and purged 3,251 registered voters, citing concerns over noncitizen participation in elections. The DOJ argues that the removals, conducted 84 days before the election, breached the National Voter Registration Act of 1993, which mandates changes to voter registration lists be completed at least 90 days prior. Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke emphasized the importance of protecting voting rights, noting that the purge may have also impacted natural-born citizens mistakenly identified as noncitizens. The DOJ seeks injunctive relief to restore voting rights for affected individuals and to educate voters about their rights ahead of Election Day. Allen defended his actions, stating his commitment to ensuring only American citizens vote.
