White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt asserted on Thursday that New Jersey's recent admission of 6,600 noncitizens being registered to vote validates the Trump administration's concerns regarding election integrity. The revelation, attributed by New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill to a "serious software error" within the state's Motor Vehicle System, was met with skepticism by Leavitt, who suggested the timing was not accidental.
"I think this governor is saying this because she realizes this administration is serious about getting to the bottom of illegal aliens voting and being on our voter rolls in our country," Leavitt said in reference to the New Jersey governor's statement. She indicated that the number of noncitizens on voter rolls is likely higher and present in "states across the country."
The situation in New Jersey comes shortly after former President Donald Trump's address calling for secured "free and fair" elections. Trump has renewed his push for the SAVE America Act, a proposal that would mandate proof of citizenship and photo identification for federal election registration and voting.
Earlier this year, Trump had directed the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to notify all states about noncitizens found on their voter rolls and to ensure their immediate removal. DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin stated at the time that election officials who do not act on information provided by DHS could face penalties, including potential prison time.
Leavitt indicated that any questions regarding accountability for the New Jersey situation should be directed to the Department of Justice.