The Justice Department has charged 28 California residents with voting-related crimes. The charges come as the Trump administration escalates its dispute with state officials over voter rolls.
Prosecutors say the cases involve improper registration and voting by individuals not eligible to cast ballots. Details on specific charges and court dates have not been fully released.
The action is part of a broader federal push on election integrity ahead of the midterms. Administration officials have pledged closer scrutiny of state voter lists.
California leaders have rejected federal claims of widespread problems with its voter rolls. State officials argue the accusations are politically motivated and lack evidence.
The state has its own safeguards for verifying registration and maintaining accurate lists. Officials say those systems have repeatedly proven reliable in past elections.
Legal experts note that voter fraud prosecutions are rare and often involve isolated cases. Large-scale efforts to challenge state voting systems typically face high legal hurdles.
The charges are likely to intensify the standoff between Washington and California. Both sides are preparing for further legal and political battles as election season approaches.
