Two Indian nationals among 28 green card holders charged with illegal voting in US

Among those charged with illegal voting in California are two Indian nationals who held green cards, according to law enforcement officials. The charges against the 28 non-citizens represent a significant enforcement action in a state where voting eligibility has become a contentious political issue.

The timing of the charges, coming three weeks before the November midterm elections, has added fuel to an already escalating dispute between the Trump administration and California. The state has faced repeated criticism from federal authorities over its voter registration practices and documentation procedures.

Green card holders, also known as lawful permanent residents, are not eligible to vote in U.S. elections. Federal law restricts voting rights to U.S. citizens, and non-citizens who cast ballots can face serious legal consequences including fines and potential deportation proceedings.

California officials have maintained that their voting systems include safeguards to prevent ineligible voters from casting ballots. The state has emphasized its commitment to election integrity while defending its voter registration procedures against federal accusations of laxity.

The case adds to mounting political friction between Sacramento and Washington over immigration enforcement and election administration policies, with both sides using the issue to energize their respective political bases ahead of the midterm vote.