ICE Arrests 19 Non-Citizens for Alleged Voter Fraud
ICE announced 19 arrests of non-citizens for alleged illegal voting, including multiple green card holders. The sweep — part of an ongoing federal investigation — shows that lawful permanent residents are not exempt from prosecution for voting in US elections. A conviction can end a path to citizenship and trigger deportation.
ICE announced on October 29, 2026, that it had arrested 19 non-citizens in connection with alleged voter fraud. The list includes both undocumented immigrants and lawful permanent residents — people who hold green cards. Several individuals surrendered voluntarily to Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents after being contacted.
Who was arrested — and why it matters for green card holders
Most people assume voter fraud arrests only target undocumented immigrants. This round of arrests shows that is not the case. At least 10 of the 19 people named are lawful permanent residents (LPRs) — meaning they have green cards. Among them: a Canadian citizen who voted in 2022, a German citizen who voted in both 2020 and 2024, and a Mexican citizen who allegedly voted in 15 separate elections going back to 2000. ICE Public Affairs Assistant Director Micah Bock said in the announcement: "Every illegal who voted must be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."
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Immigrant rights, appeals and protective measures
Non-citizens — including green card holders — are not allowed to vote in federal elections. Doing so is a federal crime. A conviction can lead to removal proceedings, loss of permanent resident status, and a permanent bar from obtaining US citizenship through naturalization. Some of the individuals named also have prior criminal convictions, which ICE listed as aggravating factors. At least two people in the list have final orders of removal already in place.
ICE said these 19 cases represent only part of an ongoing investigation. The agency did not specify how many total arrests it expects to make. Arrests took place across multiple states, with several cases tied to Minnesota voter records obtained through subpoenas to the Minnesota Secretary of State.
What to do
- If you are a green card holder, do not register to vote and do not vote in any federal, state, or local election — even if someone tells you it is allowed. It is not.
- If ICE contacts you or asks you to surrender, do not go without speaking to an immigration lawyer first. You have the right to legal representation in removal proceedings.
- If you have already voted in a US election as a non-citizen, consult an immigration attorney immediately. Depending on the circumstances, you may face removal proceedings or lose eligibility for naturalization.
- If you have a removal order or a prior criminal conviction, your risk of detention is higher. An attorney can help you understand your options before ICE acts.
What to do, step by step — see our guide “Your Rights During an ICE Encounter”.
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Voting as a non-citizen — even once, even by mistake — is a federal crime that can result in removal proceedings and a permanent bar from naturalization. Green card holders who receive a subpoena or an ICE contact should not speak to agents without counsel; anything you say can be used against you in immigration court. If you are in this situation, consult an immigration attorney right away to assess your exposure and any possible defenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a green card holder be deported for voting in a US election?
Yes. Voting in a US federal election as a non-citizen is a federal crime. A conviction can lead to removal proceedings and deportation, even if you have held a green card for many years.
Does voting illegally affect my chances of becoming a US citizen?
Yes. Illegal voting is considered a crime involving moral turpitude and can permanently bar you from naturalization. USCIS reviews your voting history as part of the naturalization application.
What if I voted by mistake — I did not know I was not allowed to?
Intent matters in criminal court, but immigration law is strict. Even an unintentional illegal vote can trigger removal proceedings. You should speak with an immigration attorney to understand your specific situation and any available defenses.
If ICE calls me or asks me to come in, do I have to go?
You have the right to speak with an attorney before responding to ICE. Do not surrender or make any statement without legal counsel. An immigration lawyer can advise you on your rights and the risks before you take any action.