Ruling affirms election procedures and reinforces protections for eligible voters
LOS ANGELES — Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk (RR/CC) Dean C. Logan welcomes today’s federal court decision denying the U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ) emergency request to set aside ballots cast by Los Angeles County residents based on unverified claims of voter ineligibility.
The ruling, issued by U.S. District Judge David O. Carter, reinforces Los Angeles County’s continued administration of the November 3 General Election in accordance with long-established state and federal laws, procedures, and statutory timelines.
The court emphasized that established election procedures must be respected, stating: “This Court will not deprive Californians who have met the requirements for voter registration of their fundamental right because of Plaintiff’s unfounded allegations.”
The court also identified significant legal concerns with the DOJ’s proposed actions, finding that the requested relief would likely violate several longstanding federal protections, including:
- National Voter Registration Act (NVRA): Protects voters against systematic removal efforts immediately preceding a federal election.
- Voting Rights Act: Protects the rights of eligible voters to cast ballots and have their votes counted.
- Civil Rights Act: Requires consistent standards and procedures when determining voter eligibility.
“Our office takes voter eligibility seriously, and any credible evidence of unlawful voting warrants appropriate review. But claims of unlawful voting must be supported by verifiable evidence, not assumptions,” said Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk Dean Logan. “Today’s ruling reinforces what we have maintained throughout this process: election integrity and the protection of eligible voters go hand in hand. Our established procedures are grounded in state and federal law, and we will continue carrying out our responsibilities with accuracy, transparency, and accountability voters deserve.”
While additional judicial review remains possible, Los Angeles County remains confident in the legal foundation of its election procedures and believes today’s detailed ruling provides a strong basis for its continued application.
Los Angeles County maintains multiple layers of safeguards throughout the election process, including voter registration verification, ballot signature verification, secure ballot processing, and opportunities for public observation. These procedures protect election integrity while ensuring every eligible voter can participate, and every valid ballot is counted accurately.
“Our focus remains on the voters we serve,” Logan added. “With Election Day approaching, we want every eligible voter to feel confident that their rights are protected, their ballots are secure, and their votes will be counted accurately. The best way to demonstrate confidence in our elections is through participation, and we encourage every voter to make their voice heard.”
Voting Continues Across Los Angeles County
Voting is underway at Vote Centers and Official Ballot Drop Boxes throughout Los Angeles County. Beginning Saturday, October 31, all 646 Vote Centers will be open, allowing voters to cast their ballots at any location in the County, regardless of where they live.
Voters may also return their completed Vote by Mail ballots at any Vote Center or one of the County’s 429 official ballot drop boxes.
On Election Day, Tuesday, November 3, Vote Centers will be open from 7 AM to 8 PM.
For official election information, voting locations, and ballot tracking resources, visit LAVOTE.GOV.