Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated an investigation into the possible illegal voter registration of non-citizens. This inquiry aims to ensure that only eligible U.S. citizens are casting ballots in the state’s elections. According to Paxton, the non-profit organizations involved, offered voter registration assistance outside DPS Driver License offices, raising questions about their operations and the legality of their actions.
The Texas Attorney General’s Election Integrity Unit has conducted undercover operations to expose any illegal practices. The necessity and motives of these nonprofits are under scrutiny, especially since citizens can register to vote during their visits to DPS offices. The probe, sparked by reports of these activities, could have comprehensive legal and political consequences.
Undercover Efforts and Legal Implications
To uncover any illegal voter registrations, Paxton’s team has conducted undercover operations in major metropolitan areas of Texas. Paxton expressed his concerns that these organizations might be registering non-citizens, a criminal act under Texas law. Texas already uses multiple safeguards to prevent noncitizen voting during the registration process at DPS offices. Paxton’s office is determined to uphold these laws and penalize any wrongdoing accordingly.
“Texans are deeply troubled by the possibility that organizations purporting to assist with voter registration are illegally registering noncitizens to vote in our elections,” Paxton said in a press release on Wednesday. “If eligible citizens can legally register to vote when conducting their business at a Department of Public Safety office, why would they need a second opportunity to register with a booth outside?”
Spotlight on Election Integrity
In a significant step towards maintaining election integrity, Paxton outlined the potential criminal charges for falsifying information about citizenship status when registering to vote. The penalties include up to two years in state jail and a $10,000 fine for making false claims about citizenship, while illegal voting can result in up to 20 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. These stringent measures underscore the importance Texas places on secure and legal elections.
Paxton did not hold back in his criticism of the Biden-Harris Administration, accusing it of intentionally permitting illegal aliens to enter the country, potentially influencing elections. “The States have a constitutional right and responsibility to ensure that only legal votes from American citizens are counted. I hope the Supreme Court recognizes this urgency and acts to protect our elections,” Paxton stated.
