DOJ Sues Alabama Over Controversial Voter Registration Program

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has initiated legal action against the state of Alabama, challenging a voter registration program that allegedly contravenes federal law. The lawsuit, filed on September 27, 2024, targets a state initiative aimed at removing certain individuals from voter rolls less than 90 days before the upcoming November 5 elections.

Wes Allen, Alabama's Secretary of State, previously announced the identification of 3,251 people who would have their voting status changed to inactive due to prior issuance of federal noncitizen identification numbers. This action has raised concerns about potential violations of the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 (NVRA), which mandates states to maintain accurate and current voter registration lists while protecting citizens' voting rights.

The DOJ's Civil Rights Division, responsible for enforcing federal voting rights laws, argues that Alabama's program infringes upon the 90-day "Quiet Period" established by federal statutes. This period exists to prevent large-scale voter removals close to elections, as such actions can be error-prone and cause voter confusion with insufficient time for rectification.

Federal authorities have discovered that Alabama's list erroneously includes some native-born and naturalized U.S. citizens. This finding underscores the complexities of maintaining accurate voter rolls while respecting the rights of all eligible voters, including those granted citizenship through the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

The lawsuit seeks to halt the program and reinstate eligible voters who received notices about updating their registration forms. It also requests that Alabama provide voter education materials and training for local officials and poll workers to address confusion and mistrust among affected voters.

This legal action occurs against a backdrop of intensified focus on noncitizen voting in federal elections, which is illegal but rare according to research. The issue has gained prominence in recent months, with some Republican lawmakers pushing for legislation requiring proof of citizenship for voter registration.

"The right to vote is one of the most sacred rights in our democracy. As Election Day approaches, it is critical that Alabama redress voter confusion resulting from its list maintenance mailings sent in violation of federal law."

The case highlights the ongoing debate between ensuring election integrity and protecting voting rights. While some argue for stricter measures to prevent noncitizen voting, critics contend that such requirements could disenfranchise long-time voters lacking easy access to necessary documents.

Similar controversies have emerged in other states. In September 2024, Arizona faced issues with approximately 98,000 voters incorrectly recorded as having submitted proof of citizenship. The state's Supreme Court swiftly addressed the matter, ruling against changing these residents' voting status due to the proximity of the election.

The Alabama program is also facing a separate legal challenge from civil rights groups, who allege that the state is targeting its growing immigrant population through a voter purge intended to intimidate and disenfranchise naturalized citizens.

As the case unfolds, it will likely contribute to the ongoing national conversation about voting rights, election administration, and the balance between state and federal authority in managing elections. The outcome may have significant implications for future voter registration practices across the United States.