Key facts
- Jeff Van Drew is exploring the use of subpoenas to investigate the noncitizen voter issue in New Jersey.
- Approximately 6,600 noncitizens were added to voter rolls between June 2023 and June 2024.
- Around 400 noncitizens cast ballots in subsequent elections.
- Blame for the error is disputed between state officials and the vendor IDEMIA.
- Van Drew voted for the 2018 "motor voter" law that enabled automatic voter registration.
Jeff Van Drew, a legislator in New Jersey, stated he is "absolutely exploring" the use of subpoenas to investigate the issue of noncitizens being added to the state's voter rolls and casting ballots. This situation arose from a 2018 "motor voter" law that allows automatic voter registration when applying for state IDs, with a stipulation that noncitizens should be screened out. However, between June 2023 and June 2024, approximately 6,600 noncitizens were erroneously added to the rolls, and around 400 of them subsequently voted in elections. Governor Sherrill, who took office after this period, expressed that she does not believe any votes swayed an election. The blame for the error is contested, with state officials and the vendor IDEMIA pointing fingers at each other. Van Drew, who previously voted in favor of the 2018 law, indicated that he assumes government agencies will follow the law as created by the legislature. He remained noncommittal on prosecuting or deporting those who voted, stating that "some homework" needs to be done to determine intent.