Data from Virginia’s Department of Elections reveals potential non-citizen voting, sparking debates over electoral integrity. Experts emphasize the importance of accurate voter lists to maintain trust in election outcomes.

Virginia’s Department of Elections Data Under Scrutiny

Jon Lareau, a data analyst with EPEC, appeared on the WarRoom program. Thursday revealed findings that have stirred controversy in Virginia. He and his team conducted a deep dive into voter registration data from the Department of Elections, identifying cases where non-citizens had been removed from the voter rolls. The data analysis began earlier this year, showing a pattern of previously registered non-citizens who had participated in elections. This discovery has ignited a broader discussion about the accuracy of voter lists and the implications for election integrity.

3,533 Non-Citizen Removals Identified

As of October 1st, Lareau’s research highlighted 3,533 removals of individuals who self-identified as non-citizens. These names were removed from voter rolls through a long-standing verification process. However, 537 of those individuals had a voting history, amounting to a total of 1,296 ballots cast since 2019. Lareau explained, "There were indeed non-citizens that were being removed from our voter rolls that had actually voted in the past,” emphasizing that even small numbers can impact tight races in Virginia.

Data Collection and Analysis Process

The data used by Lareau’s team was sourced directly from Virginia’s Department of Elections. The team purchases monthly updates from the state, including transaction logs showing voter registration changes. By cross-referencing these updates with voter history data, they identified cases of non-citizenship. The analysis depends on official records—data from DMV applications, jury duty questionnaires, and other state interactions where individuals identified as non-citizens.

Lareau stressed that the research relies on official data only, not third-party or commercial sources. This focus on state-provided information is crucial for accuracy and credibility. "We are not investing any data that we’re not trying to inject anything,” Lareau noted, emphasizing the objectivity of the analysis.

Long-Standing Process for Removing Non-Citizens

The process for identifying and removing non-citizens from the voter rolls has been in place since 2006. Implemented under Democratic Governor Tim Kaine, the procedure was formalized through a bill sponsored by then-Senator Ken Cuccinelli. The system relies on self-reporting; when a non-citizen declares their status during official state procedures, they are flagged for removal. Individuals have 14 days to challenge the removal if they believe it to be in error.

This process is not new, but Lareau’s data analysis has questioned its effectiveness. The findings suggest that while the system has functioned, it may not have been enough to prevent non-citizens from initially voting.

Small Numbers with Potential Big Impact

While the numbers may appear small, Lareau pointed out they could influence close elections. Virginia has experienced races decided by slim margins, and non-citizen votes could theoretically tip the balance. Lareau stated, "It’s not infinitesimal…it happened,” emphasizing that even a few hundred illegal votes could be significant. The controversy centers on the numbers and the underlying trust in the voter registration system.

Importance of Maintaining Accurate Voter Lists

Accurate voter lists are fundamental to the integrity of elections. Lareau’s analysis underscores the importance of data transparency and proper verification processes. The discovery of non-citizen voting has sparked debates over how the state handles voter registration data and how it ensures that only eligible citizens participate in elections. Lareau emphasized the need to follow the law and maintain precise records, saying, "The real thing is we just want to have accurate voter lists.”

Balancing Accuracy and Accessibility

The controversy around non-citizen voting in Virginia illustrates the delicate balance between maintaining accurate voter lists and encouraging voter participation. The data analysis highlights potential flaws in the current system, emphasizing the importance of vigilance in ensuring electoral integrity. Moving forward, Virginia’s Department of Elections may need to reassess its procedures to enhance accuracy without discouraging legitimate voters.

This investigation serves as a reminder that electoral systems must constantly adapt to new challenges, ensuring trust and reliability for all voters.

For more of our coverage about EPEC:

Lawfare Activism Targets Virginia Voter Rolls: Pushing Citizenship Boundaries to Undermine Election Integrity

For more context from Jon Lareau’s Thursday remarks on the WarRoom: