28 Noncitizens Charged in California Voter Fraud Probe
Federal prosecutors charged 28 foreign nationals in California with illegally registering to vote or voting, and at least 11 were initially taken into custody. The charges include unlawful voting by aliens, falsely claiming U.S. citizenship, and depriving residents of a fair election process; at least eight allegedly voted more than once, including in the 2026 primary. One defendant, a 72-year-old Belizean national, allegedly registered fraudulently in 2019 and voted in 2020, 2022, and 2024.
Federal prosecutors in California’s Central District announced charges against 28 foreign nationals as part of “Operation Protect the Vote.” Authorities said at least 11 were initially detained, with more arrests expected. Allegations include registering or voting unlawfully, falsely asserting U.S. citizenship, and interfering with a fair election process. At least eight defendants allegedly cast multiple ballots, including in the 2026 primary.
One defendant, 72-year-old Alexander Muñoz, a Belizean national, allegedly registered fraudulently in September 2019 by claiming citizenship. He is accused of voting in 2020, twice in 2022, and in 2024, and of making false statements on a naturalization application. Officials also said 113 people across 20 states have been charged in similar cases.
The charges may heighten public scrutiny of election administration and immigration status checks in California. Affected groups could include noncitizens uncertain about registration rules, voters concerned about ballot integrity, and election officials facing pressure to verify eligibility. Prosecutions may also deter unlawful registration, though they could fuel broader debates over access and enforcement. Legal outcomes may determine whether these cases reshape trust or intensify polarization.