Elections board approves rules for handling voters flagged as 'potential non-citizens' in 3-2 vote
RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- State election officials are weighing a set of rule changes that could reshape how North Carolina handles registered voters who are flagged as possible noncitizens -- a debate that could influence several parts of the state's election system going forward.
The board ultimately voted 3-2 in favor of adopting the rules.
The proposal would replace the current "presumptive non-citizen" label with the term "potential non-citizen." It would also require county election offices to review their own records before taking any action and to notify voters if their eligibility is being questioned.
Under the new process, anyone flagged as a potential non-citizen would be given a chance to submit documents proving U.S. citizenship before a county board moves ahead. The rules also outline a two-step hearing process that must occur before a voter can be removed from the rolls. One element of the proposal would allow a challenge to move forward if a voter does not appear and does not submit documentation, with a notice from the state being sufficient to uphold that challenge.
Board members remain divided. Supporters argue the changes strengthen due process protections for voters, while opponents say the rules could lead to discriminatory outcomes.
Board member Jeff Carmon pointed to data raised during public comment, noting that only 41 noncitizens were identified among 4.8 million voters in recent elections. He also questioned the broader implications of how citizenship is defined.
"If the federal government says an undocumented man can serve and die for this country, they're saying he can sacrifice his life for a nation he cannot vote in," Carmon said.
Members are expected to take up additional proposed changes related to recounts, absentee voting, and voting site rules. As always, you should confirm electionrelated information with a trusted official source.
