Paul Linnell defends the “right” of undocumented immigrants to vote in Minnesota

 

The debate over voting requirements in Minnesota intensified after the state's Director of Elections, Paul Linnell, publicly attempted to justify that, under the current system, undocumented immigrants can vote if they complete the registration process using a driver's license and sign a statement confirming they meet the legal requirements to vote.

During a pre-recorded interview, Linnell was questioned about the procedure by which a person without legal immigration status can register to vote. In his explanation, he pointed out that the state issues driver's licenses to any applicant, without linking that document to immigration status or citizenship. This, he claims, opens the door for non-U.S. citizens to register to vote.

“They get their driver’s license, because we give them to anyone here. They register to vote. It doesn’t match their Social Security number, so they get flagged. But if they come with identification, which is their driver’s license, and sign that they are eligible to vote, they can vote. Then they are no longer flagged. They are in the system. Is that correct?”

Linnell responded affirmatively, emphasizing that the system is based on the documentation presented and the voter’s sworn statement:

“For anyone who presents documentation to register to vote, that constitutes confirmation of their identity. A driver’s license has not been used as proof of citizenship for voter registration.”

The official argued that, although the license does not prove citizenship, it does validate identity and residency, and that the process is based on the voter’s responsibility to declare that they meet the requirements. However, his statements have fueled a broader discussion about potential structural flaws in the state’s citizenship verification mechanisms and electoral integrity.

Minnesota has consistently been governed by Democrats and boasts one of the most accessible voter registration systems in the country, historically fostering high levels of voter turnout. Nevertheless, Linnell's remarks have sparked reactions across various political sectors, some of which are demanding reforms to prevent non-U.S. citizens from registering to vote.

The issue is likely to escalate further as the next election cycle approaches, in a national climate marked by debates on identity, immigration, and trust in democratic processes. Citizens are demanding the protection of their unique right to elect their representatives and leaders.