Ohio has recently initiated a significant crackdown on illegal voting, resulting in indictments against six individuals. Attorney General Dave Yost emphasized the sanctity of the voting process and the stringent laws surrounding who is permitted to vote. He made it clear that regardless of the circumstances, voting as a non-U.S. citizen is illegal, and those who do so will face legal repercussions. The cases of alleged illegal voting span a timeline from 2008 to 2020, indicating that this issue is not limited to recent elections but has persisted over many years.
The majority of the individuals charged in these cases are identified as legal permanent residents who, at the time of voting, were not U.S. citizens. Under Ohio law, illegal voting is classified as a fourth-degree felony. Despite the indictments, Yost pointed out that occurrences of such irregularities are relatively infrequent, suggesting that the public should feel assured about the integrity of upcoming elections, given that legal processes are in place and being actively enforced.
Yost underscored that intent plays no role in the determination of illegal voting; ignorance of the law does not absolve individuals of responsibility. He likened illegal voting to receiving a speeding ticket, where a driver might not be aware of exceeding the speed limit but remains liable for the offense nonetheless. This comparison highlights the strict liability associated with voting violations, emphasizing that individuals must be aware of the laws governing their eligibility to vote.
In a broader context, Yost’s office is investigating a total of 138 allegations of improper voting that have been referred by Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose. This extensive investigation indicates a proactive approach to maintain electoral integrity in Ohio and address any potential violations that might undermine public confidence in the electoral process.
Despite the legal consequences that the six indicted individuals may face, Yost has expressed that he does not intend to seek prison sentences for those found guilty. He believes that the circumstances surrounding these cases do not warrant such severe penalties and that alternative actions can serve to hold individuals accountable for their violations effectively. This perspective aims to balance enforcing the law while recognizing the specific contexts of each case.
On a related note, in September, LaRose advised all county Boards of Elections to remain vigilant regarding voter registrations and potential irregularities. An investigation into a specific case involving an illegally submitted voter registration form translated into Haitian Creole exemplifies the active measures being taken. The Clark County Board of Elections rejected this form and promptly reported it to state authorities, reflecting a commitment to scrutinizing voter registrations actively. These efforts highlight the ongoing initiatives to safeguard the electoral process in Ohio and underscore the importance of compliance with voting laws.