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LA Councilmember's Push to Let Non-Citizens Vote in Elections Sparks Debate
The measure would require council approval, voter support and a new ordinance before noncitizens could vote in local races.
- On Wednesday, Los Angeles City Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martinez introduced a proposal to allow noncitizen voting in local and school board elections, targeting the November 3, 2026 ballot.
- Angelica Salas, executive director of the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights, argued that noncitizens contribute significantly through taxes and labor, deserving a voice in local policies.
- With noncitizen figures in the metro area exceeding 2 million, supporters claim the measure fosters a more representative electorate; the proposal now heads to the Rules Committee.
- Opponents warn the plan erodes democratic foundations, with Ira Mehlman of American Immigration Reform stating it 'undermines the whole concept of citizenship,' while candidate Dylan Kendall warned it could expose undocumented residents to federal scrutiny.
- Past California efforts demonstrate significant challenges, as Santa Ana voters rejected a similar measure in November 2024 by a decisive 62% to 38% margin, while legal rulings stalled implementations in San Francisco and Oakland.
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LA Socialists Want Illegals on the Voter Rolls
Two Democratic Socialists of America-backed city councilmembers in Los Angeles are pushing a proposal that would allow noncitizens, including illegal immigrants, to vote in local elections. The measure could appear on the city’s November 3 ballot if the full Council approves it. Hugo Soto-Martinez, a DSA member currently running for reelection, introduced the proposal. It would grant the Council authority to formally extend voting rights to nonc…
Far-left LA city councilmember launches shock bid to let noncitizens vote in elections
Democratic Socialists of America-backed Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martínez argues that illegal migrants should have the right to pick leaders and shape policies in Los Angeles.
·New York, United States
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources11
Leaning Left2Leaning Right4Center3Last UpdatedBias Distribution45% Right
Bias Distribution
- 45% of the sources lean Right
45% Right
L 22%
C 33%
R 45%
Factuality
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