Key Facts
• September 9, 2025: Reuters reveals DOJ’s plan to share voter data with HSI.
• Data includes sensitive information like driver’s license numbers, raising privacy concerns.
• DOJ requested voter data from at least 24 states, seeking full voter lists from 22.
• Federal law mandates states to maintain accurate voter rolls by removing ineligible voters.
• HSI plans to cross-check voter data with law enforcement databases for investigations.
• Some legal experts argue the data sharing is lawful for civil and criminal investigations.
• Privacy experts highlight legal requirements for government to announce data collection.
• Critics claim DOJ’s actions deviate from stated purposes, raising legality questions.
• Former DOJ official Justin Levitt calls the data request “unusual and likely illegal.”
• DHS spokesperson defends the move, citing prevention of illegal interference in elections.
• President Trump continues to allege election fraud and intensifies immigration enforcement.
Summary
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is considering sharing voter registration data collected from states with the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) division for use in criminal and immigration-related investigations. This data includes sensitive information, such as driver’s license numbers, sparking privacy concerns. At least 24 states were asked to provide voter data, with 22 states requested to submit complete voter lists. While some legal experts argue the move is lawful for investigative purposes, privacy advocates and former DOJ officials question its legality and potential misuse. Critics also highlight that the DOJ’s actions may exceed its stated purposes. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) defends the initiative, claiming it aims to prevent illegal activities that could undermine democratic processes. However, several states have resisted the request, citing insufficient legal justification. This development aligns with President Trump’s ongoing claims of election fraud and his administration’s focus on stricter immigration enforcement.
