Non-Citizens Voting in Minnesota? GOP Demands Answers from Walz Administration!

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Following the deactivation of over 1,000 potentially ineligible voters, Republicans question the integrity of Minnesota's voter registration process.

ST. PAUL, Minn. — The Republican National Committee (RNC) and Minnesota’s GOP leaders have called on the administration of Governor Tim Walz to address alleged failures in the state’s voter registration system. The demand for answers follows the inactivation of more than 1,000 potentially ineligible voters, a situation the GOP claims is the result of flaws in Minnesota’s automatic voter registration process.

In a letter dated September 23, 2024, addressed to Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon and Department of Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson, Republican leaders expressed frustration over what they perceive as inadequate communication and transparency regarding the deactivation of these voters. The letter, signed by RNC Election Integrity Counsel Kevin J. Cline, Minnesota GOP Chairman David Hann, and several Republican members of Congress, outlined several key questions they expect the administration to answer to ensure the integrity of the upcoming elections.

Key Concerns Raised by GOP Leaders

The primary concern highlighted by the GOP is the state’s Automatic Voter Registration (AVR) system, which they claim has led to non-citizens being improperly registered to vote. According to the letter, over 1,000 voter records were flagged as problematic due to missing information such as name, address, or citizenship status. Despite the discovery, the GOP claims there has been a lack of clarity and urgency from the Walz administration in addressing these issues.

“Without our efforts, Walz would have allowed non-citizens to vote and interfere in our country’s most important election,” said RNC Chairman Michael Whatley. “This is an alarming breach of election integrity. His Administration must be held accountable, and we will do whatever it takes to protect the vote and fight for transparency in Minnesota’s elections.”

The letter from the GOP outlines several pointed questions aimed at obtaining detailed information on the nature and scope of the issue:

1. Exact Numbers: What is the precise number of individuals who were deactivated from the voter rolls?
2. Categories of Errors: What categories of missing information led to their inactivation, and how many individuals fall into each category?
3. Impact on Past Elections: How many inactivated individuals have voted in past elections, and could their participation have changed election outcomes?
4. Future Voting Eligibility: Will the inactivated individuals be able to register and vote in the November elections, and what steps are being taken to verify their eligibility?

Impact on Voter Confidence

The controversy over the voter roll issues comes at a critical time as early voting is already underway in Minnesota. The GOP argues that the inaction and lack of transparency from the Walz administration risk undermining public confidence in the state’s election process.

“It’s incredibly concerning that non-citizens and illegal immigrants could be voting in our elections thanks to the failed leadership of Governor Walz,” said Representative Michelle Fischbach (MN-07). “We need answers from the Walz Administration now to ensure the security of this election.”

Administration’s Response and Next Steps

In their initial response, Secretary Simon’s office acknowledged the issues but emphasized that the number of potentially ineligible voters represents a small fraction of the overall voter base. Simon’s team reiterated their commitment to resolving discrepancies promptly and ensuring that only eligible voters are included on the rolls.

Commissioner Jacobson, in a letter dated September 12, admitted that approximately 1,000 individuals may have been improperly registered through the AVR process. However, he stated that efforts are ongoing to rectify these records and prevent similar issues in the future.

The Walz administration has not yet provided a detailed response to all of the GOP’s questions. As the November election approaches, pressure is mounting for the state to demonstrate that its voter rolls are accurate and that any remaining issues are addressed swiftly.

Looking Ahead: Ensuring Election Integrity

As the legal and political battle continues, the outcome of this dispute will likely influence voter perceptions and confidence in Minnesota’s electoral system. Both sides are preparing for a prolonged engagement over the administration of voter registration and the integrity of the vote.

For now, Minnesota voters are left with questions about the security and accuracy of the state’s election process, as both parties gear up for what could be a contentious election season.

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