Recent investigations in Texas have raised significant concerns regarding voter registrations, particularly in Travis County. Officials have found that 11 individuals flagged as potential noncitizens actually provided proof of their citizenship during their application for a driver’s license or state ID at the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).
Background on Texas Voter Investigation
Earlier this month, reports emerged indicating that hundreds of Texans were identified by the Texas Secretary of State’s Office as potential noncitizens. This list was generated by cross-referencing the state’s voter rolls, which include over 18 million registered voters, with a federal database designed to verify citizenship status.
Implementation of the SAVE Database
The database in question, known as SAVE, was updated by the Trump administration to enhance accessibility for states. Election officials across the nation have been encouraged to utilize this resource to identify individuals who may not be eligible to vote.
Investigation Findings
- The Texas Secretary of State’s Office previously did not compare the list of 2,724 flagged individuals against DPS records.
- A subsequent investigation yielded confirmation that 11 individuals in Travis County had indeed verified their citizenship.
- According to officials, at least 33 U.S. citizens from the flagged list have been identified across 24 counties.
- Of the 218 individuals flagged, many had registered at DPS and were believed to have submitted proof of citizenship.
Celia Israel, the Travis County tax assessor-collector, emphasized that these findings raise serious doubts about the reliability of the SAVE database as a tool for verifying voter eligibility. She stated, “This confirmation shows that SAVE is not a reliable resource.”
Concerns from Election Officials
Election officials and advocacy groups are voicing apprehensions regarding the accuracy of the SAVE database. Lawsuits have emerged against recent changes to the database, questioning its effectiveness in protecting the integrity of the voting process. Alicia Pierce, a spokesperson for the Texas Secretary of State’s Office, defended SAVE as an important data source but acknowledged that it requires thorough evaluation.
Furthermore, Israel indicated discrepancies in the voter registration process with DPS. Initially, her office discovered that 26 out of 97 registered voters had used DPS to register. However, updated information revealed only 8 of these individuals had documented proof of citizenship on file.
Next Steps for Counties
As counties grapple with the implications of these findings, election administrators are striving to ensure eligible voters maintain their rights. Notifications have been sent to individuals flagged on the list, urging them to provide proof of citizenship. Failure to respond within 30 days could result in the cancellation of their registrations; however, reinstatement is guaranteed if proof is later submitted.
- In Cameron County, 68 potential noncitizens were flagged.
- Election officials are actively reaching out to registry holders to clarify their citizenship status.
- Concerns over federal immigration enforcement have made some individuals hesitant to present their documentation.
Election officials, such as Remi Garza from Cameron County, are committed to facilitating the verification process, highlighting their intention to uphold the voting rights of all eligible citizens. They aim to create an environment where eligible voters feel safe and supported in their efforts to participate in elections.
