New Directive on Illegal Voting

The Department of Homeland Security is taking a new stance regarding illegal immigrants who participate in U.S. elections. A recent letter from DHS General Counsel James Percival instructed U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to initiate deportation measures against undocumented individuals found voting fraudulently.

This action aligns with the Immigration and Nationality Act, which mandates the removal of foreign nationals who vote illegally in American elections. There seems to be a growing emphasis on ensuring election integrity, and Percival’s directive reflects that focus.

DHS has noted that illegal voting and claiming U.S. citizenship fraudulently often occur together. Percival reiterated the significance of free and fair elections, stating that the American people’s ability to have their votes accurately counted is essential. He remarked that illegal voting undermines democracy, stressing the need for appropriate consequences.

Recently, cases have emerged involving undocumented immigrants charged with illegal voting. For instance, Mahdi Sacco, a national from Mauritania, was accused of voting in every presidential election since 2008. Additionally, four individuals were charged in May for illegally voting in multiple federal elections and providing false information on their citizenship applications.

This directive also builds on a previous announcement by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, which updated its policy manual in August 2025 to prevent green card holders who have voted or registered from attaining citizenship.

Moreover, Percival’s directive aims to bolster policies introduced under President Donald Trump’s executive order from March 2025, which emphasizes the integrity of U.S. elections, including changes to voter registration and voting regulations.