**Two Ukrainians Arrested for Allegedly Voting Illegally in 2024 US Presidential Election**
In a move that appears to be the first enforcement action by the Trump administration targeting non-citizen voting, two Ukrainian citizens have been arrested for allegedly casting ballots in the 2024 presidential election. According to a statement from U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, the arrests were carried out by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in cooperation with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
Noem’s announcement on social media platform X highlights the administration’s focus on enforcing immigration laws and holding individuals accountable for breaking them. However, details about the individuals involved or the circumstances surrounding their alleged voting have not been released by authorities.
**The Role of DOGE in Immigration Enforcement**
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by billionaire Elon Musk, has been granted significant authority by President Donald Trump to streamline government operations and eliminate waste. Under this mandate, DOGE has ordered mass firings and funding cuts, sparking controversy and ongoing legal challenges.
DOGE’s involvement in immigration enforcement raises questions about the motivations behind the Trump administration’s actions. While the president has repeatedly claimed that non-citizen voting is widespread, numerous audits and studies have shown such cases to be extremely rare.
**Context of Trump Administration’s Immigration Policies**
The arrests come as the Trump administration reviews the continuation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ukrainians residing in the United States due to ongoing conflict. Last month, President Trump confirmed that his administration was reviewing TPS status for these individuals, leaving many uncertain about their future.
In an earlier development, Ukrainian nationals erroneously received deportation notices in early April, highlighting the complexities and uncertainties surrounding immigration policies under the current administration.
The implications of this development are significant, given the sensitive nature of election laws and the potential consequences for individuals found guilty of voting illegally. As more information becomes available, it will be essential to understand the full context and potential fallout from these arrests.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com
