As in-person voting begins in California’s special election on redistricting, concerns are rising within Latino communities about potential intimidation by immigration agents. Governor Gavin Newsom has warned that the Trump administration might send Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to polling places to suppress voter turnout. Although Newsom has not provided specific evidence, he pointed to an incident at a Los Angeles event for Proposition 50, where federal agents reportedly blocked supporters and detained a vendor.
Despite assurances from ICE that they do not plan operations targeting polling locations, fears persist. According to a survey by the Latino Community Foundation, two-thirds of Latino voters expressed concern about ICE or Border Patrol presence at polling sites. Christian Arana, a policy strategist for the foundation, emphasized the importance of in-person voting as a fundamental right and cautioned against succumbing to fear.
The Trump administration’s Justice Department has announced plans to deploy personnel to monitor polling sites in five California counties, including majority-Latino areas like Fresno and Kern. The department claims this is to ensure transparency and compliance with federal law, but Democrats, such as California Democratic Party Chair Rusty Hicks, argue that it is an intimidation tactic.
Many Latinos, proud to vote in person, face additional challenges. A recent investigation found that at least 170 U.S. citizens have been wrongfully detained by ICE, raising fears even among citizens. Assemblymember Esmeralda Soria, carrying her passport at all times, highlighted the anxiety caused by racial profiling.
Despite these concerns, opponents of Newsom’s redistricting plan accuse him of exaggerating the threat to grab headlines. Hector Barajas, spokesperson for the No on 50 campaign, criticized Democrats for disenfranchising nonwhite voters and claimed low turnout in special elections is typical, especially among Hispanics.
As the election approaches, Democratic volunteers are encouraging early ballot returns via mail or drop-off to mitigate fears of in-person intimidation.
Recent Comments