The topic of unauthorized immigrants (often referred to as “illegals” in some discussions, though this term can be considered derogatory) voting in U.S. elections has been a contentious one. Here’s a brief overview:

Legality:

  • In the United States, only U.S. citizens have the right to vote in federal elections. This includes natural-born citizens and naturalized citizens.
  • Non-citizens, including legal permanent residents (green card holders), unauthorized immigrants, and nonimmigrant visa holders, are not allowed to vote in federal elections.
  • Voting in a federal election by a non-citizen is a crime and can result in deportation, among other penalties.

State and Local Elections:

  • While non-citizens cannot vote in federal elections, some municipalities allow non-citizens to vote in local elections. This is relatively rare and varies by jurisdiction.
  • For instance, San Francisco allows non-citizens, including unauthorized immigrants, to vote in school board elections if they have a child in the school district.

Controversies:

  • Claims have been made about widespread illegal voting by unauthorized immigrants in federal elections. However, multiple studies and investigations have found that voter fraud, including by non-citizens, is extremely rare in the U.S.
  • Some argue that even the possibility of non-citizen voting undermines the integrity of the U.S. electoral system, while others believe that certain local voting rights for non-citizens can be beneficial, especially in areas with large immigrant populations.

Verification Systems:

  • To address concerns about voter fraud, some states have implemented stricter voter ID laws. These laws require voters to present specific types of identification before they can cast a ballot.
  • Critics argue that such laws can suppress voter turnout, particularly among minority and low-income populations, while proponents believe they help ensure the integrity of the voting process.

It’s essential to approach this topic with a nuanced understanding, recognizing the difference between federal, state, and local voting regulations and the broader context of the immigration debate in the U.S.