A controversy in New Jersey involving the registration of thousands of noncitizens to vote has drawn attention from federal authorities, prompting demands for access to voter roll data across multiple states. The issue came to light when New Jersey officials reported that an estimated 6,600 noncitizens were registered, with approximately 400 casting ballots.
Governor Mikie Sherrill initially attributed the situation to a software "glitch" from an outside vendor. However, the vendor, IDEMIA, which provides services such as TSA PreCheck and Motor Voter technology to numerous states, stated it provided the state with the requested data and had even flagged potential errors. IDEMIA's role was to collect self-reported citizenship information and voter registration interest, forwarding it to the state Division of Elections.
The New Jersey Division of Elections, which manages voter enrollment, is reportedly responsible for the error, a situation that occurred under the administration of then-Governor Phil Murphy. Sherrill's office was reportedly aware of the issue for a week before making it public.
This situation unfolds as federal agencies, including the Department of Justice and Homeland Security, are investigating the presence of nearly 270,000 noncitizens on voter rolls across New Jersey, Pennsylvania, California, and Nevada. More than 35,000 of these individuals were identified in New Jersey alone. The Justice Department has requested specific information regarding noncitizens incorrectly added to New Jersey's voter rolls.
Reports indicate that some states are hesitant to share complete voter roll data with federal authorities. New Jersey officials have stated their intention to protect residents' personal information. The controversy has also fueled debate about election security measures, including voter identification requirements and mail-in voting practices.