The Department of Justice (DOJ) has intensified its scrutiny of election practices in Los Angeles County. This development is part of ongoing efforts by the Trump administration to identify and remove noncitizens from California’s voter rolls.
On June 2, 2026, Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder Dean Logan addressed the media. He confirmed to NPR that his office had received grand jury subpoenas directed at several employees. These subpoenas, related to efforts to unveil alleged noncitizens on voting lists, were issued last week.
According to reports initially from The New York Times, at least two employees were instructed to appear in court on November 4. In conjunction with issuing subpoenas, the DOJ has sent warnings to local election officials. These letters caution them about potential legal repercussions for processing ballots linked to those identified as “likely” noncitizens by federal authorities.
“If persons knowingly tabulate ballots cast by individuals identified by federal agencies as noncitizens, they risk becoming aiders and abettors to a federal crime,” the DOJ notes.
The Justice Department has refrained from commenting on the subpoenas. It remains unclear whether the targeted staff are part of a criminal investigation.
Last week’s subpoenas coincide with a significant judicial development. U.S. District Judge David O. Carter recently denied a DOJ motion. This motion sought to compel California election officials to halt processing certain ballots flagged as “likely” belonging to noncitizens. Judge Carter criticized the reliability of the DOJ’s list and highlighted potential voter disenfranchisement and chaos.
The DOJ has appealed this decision to the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. In the courtroom, Judge Carter advised the DOJ to cease any perceived threats towards state and county election staff. His sentiments were echoed in a written order emphasizing the cessation of these threats.
Dean Logan expressed appreciation for Carter’s remarks. “Judge Carter’s admonishment about threats directed at election officials on Tuesday was well placed and appreciated,” Logan stated. “At every step, the U.S. Department of Justice has taken a confrontational, adversarial approach. Election officials are acting in accordance with state and federal law.” He assured of maintaining the safety of election staff while prioritizing Los Angeles County voters’ rights.
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