The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has instructed U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to deport undocumented immigrants who participate illegally in American elections. A letter from DHS General Counsel James Percival to ICE leaders on Monday emphasized stricter penalties, including deportation, for those unlawfully residing in the U.S. who engage in voter fraud.

Under the Immigration and Nationality Act, aliens who vote illegally in U.S. elections face removal. This aligns with ongoing efforts to uphold election integrity. Percival highlighted that illegal voting undermines democracy by diluting legitimate votes.

Illegal voting by aliens dilutes the votes of American citizens and undermines our democracy. It must have consequences,” said Percival.

The DHS directive will further implement policies similar to President Donald Trump’s March 2025 executive order, aimed at protecting election integrity. This order involves extensive reforms to voter registration, voting machines, and mail-in voting, focusing on preventing non-citizen voting.

Recent months have seen several cases of undocumented immigrants charged with illegal voting. For instance, Mauritanian citizen Mahady Sacko was charged for allegedly voting in every presidential election since 2008. Moreover, in May, four noncitizens faced charges for allegedly voting in multiple federal elections while making false statements during citizenship applications.

The directive also follows changes announced by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, which now prohibit green card holders who have voted or registered to vote from acquiring citizenship. This reflects a broader commitment to ensure fair and legal voting practices.