California Election Officials Challenge DOJ Voter List, Citing High Percentage of U.S.-Born Citizens

• by Shimanta Das
• October 24, 2026

A recent report from United Nations scientists warns that countries are not doing enough to cut emissions driving climate change, with the United States playing a significant role in climate pollution. The U.S. was the only major economy that saw an increase last year in planet-warming pollution. This environmental context underscores the importance of accurate data and fair processes in all aspects of governance, including elections.

In a separate development, Los Angeles election officials said on Tuesday that the Justice Department’s list of alleged noncitizens registered to vote in California includes a “high percentage” of individuals who say they were born in the United States. The statement, made in court papers, raises further questions about the reliability of a list of 20,000 people the Justice Department provided to election officials in Los Angeles last week. According to the officials, of the 200 individuals in the sample, 40% say they were born in the U.S. This finding challenges the accuracy of the list and its use in verifying voter eligibility.

The Justice Department sent the county and California secretary of state the list last week and gave them a 48-hour deadline to segregate ballots cast from anyone on the list unless they could verify their citizenship. “They’re forcing us to do it the hard way, which we’re willing to do because this is very important,” an official stated, highlighting the urgency and seriousness of the matter. The dispute comes as California held its state primary election on June 2, 2026, with voters casting ballots at locations like the Metro Headquarters Building in Los Angeles.

The conflicting information—from climate warnings to voter list controversies—emphasizes the need for accurate data and transparent processes. As the state works to ensure election integrity, the high percentage of U.S.-born individuals on the DOJ list raises concerns about the criteria used and the potential for errors. California officials remain committed to verifying citizenship and protecting the rights of eligible voters, even as they challenge the reliability of the federal list. The outcome of this dispute could have implications for how similar lists are handled in future elections.