DHS Directs ICE to Deport Undocumented Voters
Deportation for Illegal Voting
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a directive to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to deport undocumented immigrants who participate in American elections.
James Percival, the General Counsel of DHS, addressed a letter to ICE leadership emphasizing stricter penalties for those residing illegally in the United States who engage in voter fraud.
The Immigration and Nationality Act mandates the deportation of non-citizens who illegally vote in U.S. elections.
Concerns About Election Integrity
The DHS stressed that illegal voting and false citizenship claims are frequently linked. Percival echoed sentiments from former President Trump about preserving the integrity of elections.
The right of American citizens to cast their votes without illegal dilution is crucial for determining election outcomes accurately.
Percival noted that illegal voting undermines democracy and affects American citizens’ votes. It necessitates appropriate consequences.
Implementing New Policies
Percival’s directive supports implementation of policies akin to former President Trump’s 2025 executive order. This order focuses on maintaining the integrity of elections by updating voter registration, voting machine standards, and mail-in ballot rules. The objectives are to prevent non-citizen voting and minimize systemic errors.
Recent Incidents and Policy Changes
Recently, some undocumented immigrants have faced charges for illegal voting. For instance, Mahady Sacko, a Mauritanian citizen, was charged with voter fraud after allegedly participating in every presidential election since 2008.
In a similar case, four non-citizens were charged with illegal voting in federal elections and making false statements while applying for U.S. citizenship. Voting in state and federal elections is legally restricted to citizens.
This directive comes after an August 2025 policy update by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. It now prevents green card holders who have voted or registered to vote from acquiring citizenship.