Voter Fraud in New Jersey Spurs Renewed Interest in SAVE Act

Congressman Chip Roy emphasizes the importance of the Save America Act to ensure secure federal elections. He draws attention to a “software glitch” in New Jersey, where 6,600 non-citizens registered to vote, with hundreds casting ballots. Roy argues this widespread problem underscores the necessity for voter ID, supported by 80% of Americans, urging the Senate to act on the bill.

Recently, federal authorities have arrested several non-citizens on election-related charges. These actions coincide with Democratic statements that such instances are rare or nonexistent. The controversy arises amid debates over the SAVE Act, which mandates proof of citizenship for federal elections. Democrats contend the measure could make voting more difficult for eligible citizens.

Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon, D-Pa., argued non-citizens do not vote in U.S. elections after opposing the bill. However, three non-citizens were recently arrested in Philadelphia County, a part of Scanlon’s constituency, on election-related charges.

The Department of Homeland Security highlighted several cases. Joshua Kofi Edzie of Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago national Sade Guppy, and Haitian immigrant Cliff Sanon faced charges related to illegal voting. DHS also mentioned Mauritanian Mahady Sacko, accused of voting in seven federal elections since 2008.

In Minnesota, Attorney General Todd Blanche indicted 10 foreign nationals on voter fraud charges. The individuals, from countries like Brazil, Ghana, and Canada, allegedly voted illegally, including during the August primary.

Sen. Alex Padilla, D-Calif., described non-citizen voting as extremely rare. He criticized the SAVE Act as “anti-voter,” suggesting the arrests were a diversion from larger political issues.

Sen. Padilla also highlighted that, despite millions of registered voters, only a dozen arrests were made, reinforcing the rarity of such crimes. He urged the Department of Justice to focus on improving voter registration processes.

New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill reported that around 400 non-citizens had voted in the state, though she resisted demands for increased federal oversight.

Recently, New Jersey saw three residents charged with illegally voting and making false statements on citizenship applications. These individuals were from Jamaica, Venezuela, and Senegal.

A DHS spokesperson reiterated the agency’s commitment to investigating election fraud while recognizing the constraints imposed by ongoing investigations.

White House spokesperson Lauren Bis asserted that non-citizens continue to register and vote in federal elections, despite denials from media and Democrats. Calling for only Americans to elect U.S. leaders, Bis’s statement reflects the ongoing debate as midterms approach.