DOJ Drops Voter Purge Lawsuits Against Alabama

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and several voting rights groups have dropped lawsuits against Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen concerning a voter purge program aimed at removing noncitizen voters, which had been challenged for its legality. The DOJ's dismissal of the case, under the new administration, was framed as support for states to maintain accurate voter rolls, despite concerns that the program could disenfranchise eligible voters. Allen celebrated the dismissal as a victory for election integrity, asserting the need to prevent noncitizens from voting. However, voting rights advocates highlighted that the decision left many naturalized citizens vulnerable to unjust removal from the voter rolls. U.S. District Court Judge Anna Manasco had previously blocked the implementation of Allen's purge, citing violations of the National Voter Registration Act. While Allen claims no plans to reintroduce the purge, advocates remain vigilant against any future attempts that could suppress voter participation.