A Latino voting rights group is calling for a federal investigation after Texas authorities searched the homes of volunteers in an investigation related to voter fraud allegations. The group claims that these actions are an attempt to suppress votes.
Federal Investigation Demanded by Latino Group
The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), a prominent Latino voting rights group, has called for a federal investigation following the search of its volunteers’ homes by Texas authorities. The searches, conducted in the San Antonio area last week, are part of an ongoing investigation led by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton into alleged voter fraud during the 2022 election.
No Charges Filed Yet
Despite the searches and seizures of phones, computers, and documents, no charges have been filed against any of the individuals targeted. The investigation stems from allegations referred to Paxton’s office by a local prosecutor. The searches have caused significant concern among the volunteers, some of whom are elderly, with one 80-year-old woman reporting that agents seized her medicine, smartphone, and watch.
Allegations of Voter Suppression
Roman Palomares, the national president of LULAC, expressed deep concern over the searches, stating, “We feel like our votes are being suppressed.” He and other group members protested outside the attorney general’s office, demanding answers and pledging to uncover the truth behind these actions.
Involvement of High-Profile Individuals
Among those whose homes were searched is Manuel Medina, a San Antonio political consultant and former head of the Bexar County Democratic Party. Medina is currently working on a campaign for a Democratic state House candidate. Lidia Martinez, an 80-year-old volunteer, also had her home searched. Martinez, who was interrogated about other members, insisted she was only helping seniors and was not involved in any illegal activities.
Rarity of Voter Fraud
Voter fraud is generally rare and typically occurs in isolated instances. A 2020 investigation by the Associated Press found fewer than 475 potential cases of voter fraud out of 25.5 million ballots cast in six key states. Despite these low numbers, the Texas Attorney General’s office has intensified its efforts to investigate voter fraud through its Election Integrity Unit.
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