Two Pakistanis in New Jersey Indicted for Fraudulent Voting in a Federal Election and Lying on Citizenship Applications
Key Takeaways
- A federal grand jury indicted two Pakistani nationals in New Jersey for allegedly voting in a federal election and making false statements on naturalization applications.
- USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) highlighted the case as part of its fraud detection and national security efforts.
- If convicted, the defendants face criminal penalties and potential immigration consequences, including denial of naturalization and removal.
- The case underscores that only U.S. citizens may vote in federal elections and that false statements on Form N-400 can bar naturalization.
- Applicants are urged to answer all naturalization questions truthfully and seek legal advice if unsure about voter registration history.
What Happened
According to USCIS, two Pakistani nationals residing in New Jersey have been indicted for allegedly registering and voting in a federal election despite not being U.S. citizens, and for allegedly lying about that conduct on their naturalization applications (Form N-400). A federal indictment is a formal charge, not a finding of guilt. It has been reported that the charges stem from unlawful voting in an election that included federal offices and from false statements provided during the citizenship process.
Legal Context and Consequences
Federal law permits only U.S. citizens to vote in elections for federal office. Noncitizen voting in such elections is a crime and can also trigger immigration consequences under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), including removability for unlawful voting. Separately, naturalization applicants must establish “good moral character” for a statutory period—typically five years—and must answer all questions on Form N-400 truthfully. False statements or willful misrepresentations can lead to denial of the application and, where applicable, criminal prosecution. If convicted on the criminal counts described, defendants may face fines, imprisonment, denial of naturalization, and potential removal from the United States.
What This Means for Applicants Now
For immigrants pursuing U.S. citizenship, this case is a reminder to verify eligibility to vote and to avoid any participation in federal elections unless and until they are U.S. citizens. Some local jurisdictions allow noncitizen voting in limited local contests, but that does not extend to federal elections. Applicants who were inadvertently registered—often through motor vehicle or other state processes—should not vote, should attempt to correct the registration with local election officials, and should disclose the facts accurately on the N-400 and during the USCIS interview. When in doubt, consult an experienced immigration attorney before filing. Truthful, complete answers and prompt correction of mistakes are critical to maintaining eligibility and avoiding severe legal and immigration consequences.
Source: Original Article