Federal Decision Permits Iowa’s Voter Verification Efforts to Continue
In a significant ruling Sunday, U.S. District Judge Stephen Locher upheld Iowa’s efforts to verify voter eligibility by allowing challenges to hundreds of ballots from suspected noncitizens. Critics argue this move could disenfranchise newly naturalized citizens, sparking renewed debate over voting rights.
Legal Challenge from Civil Rights Groups
The ruling came in response to a lawsuit filed by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) on behalf of the League of Latin American Citizens of Iowa and four recent naturalized citizens, who argued that the state’s policy risked disenfranchising legitimate voters. The plaintiffs sought to prevent the state from targeting 2,000 names flagged for review, fearing wrongful challenges and potential exclusion of eligible voters.
ACLU attorney Rita Bettis Austen criticized the decision, stating, “The court’s decision not to block the state’s directive poses a threat to eligible voters, many of whom are newly naturalized citizens.”
State’s Push for “Election Integrity”
Iowa’s Republican Attorney General and Secretary of State argue that the state’s actions are critical to preventing illegal votes cast by noncitizens. Governor Kim Reynolds praised the ruling, labeling it “a victory for election integrity” and asserting that while the state encourages lawful voting, it will take steps to prevent illegal voting that might undermine the votes of lawful citizens.
How the Program Affects Voters on Election Day
Secretary of State Paul Pate’s directive, issued October 22, allows election officials to challenge ballots from those flagged as noncitizens. Voters on the list are instructed to vote provisionally, meaning their ballots will be counted only if they provide proof of citizenship within seven days. However, county auditors may decide if regular ballots can be used when a voter’s citizenship is validated on-site.
The policy follows a recent Supreme Court decision allowing similar actions in Virginia, advising courts to “act with great caution” before blocking state election directives.
Impacts on Naturalized Citizens and Voting Rights
While noncitizens voting is already prohibited by federal and state laws, ACLU attorneys argue that the state’s list likely includes a substantial number of lawful voters. Many on the list are flagged based on previous records with the Department of Transportation, where they once identified as noncitizens. These individuals may have since become U.S. citizens, yet remain subject to ballot challenges.
Austen pointed out that despite assurances, Secretary Pate’s directive could force lawful citizens to face extra scrutiny. She noted that some local officials may choose not to require provisional ballots if citizenship is proven at the polls.
