On Thursday, federal officials were dispatched to Skid Row amid inquiries into claims of voter fraud linked to the 2026 mayoral primary in Los Angeles, California.
Approximately 20 agents reportedly moved into this area, known for its significant homeless population, after reports emerged that some homeless individuals claimed they were compensated for completing registration forms, supplying voter information, and even forging signatures. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California confirmed that a criminal investigation has been initiated. Meanwhile, the FBI opted not to comment on the ongoing inquiry.
Witnesses noted that three plainclothes officers were seen interviewing several individuals just before noon. It appears that personnel from Homeland Security Investigations were also part of this operation. These officers, dressed casually in jeans, sweatshirts, and caps, were reportedly engaging with Skid Row residents and were shown where to focus their inquiries.
Days earlier, a video surfaced where a homeless woman alleged she was paid $2 to vote for Democratic Mayor Karen Bass, saying a voter instructed her to “sign every little thing” and encouraged her to “come out here all the time.” Another homeless man claimed he initially received an offer of $2 but negotiated it to $4 for his vote. Notably, this video has since been removed from social media.
The mayoral primary election commenced on June 2nd, with Bass leading by securing 34% of the votes. Leftist Democratic City Council member Nitya Raman followed with 29%, while Republican candidate and reality TV star Spencer Pratt garnered 25.5%. President Donald Trump endorsed Pratt shortly before the election.
Trump expressed his support, stating, “I want to see him do well. He’s a character. I hear he’s a big MAGA guy. He’s doing well.”
