Cuban National Arrested in Missouri for Illegal Voting

What Happened

Andrés García, a 64-year-old Cuban citizen, has been arrested in Missouri. He is accused of voting illegally in two United States federal elections: one in November 2022 and another in November 2024. The Department of Justice announced the charges, stating García is a legal permanent resident.

García was born in Cuba and emigrated to the U.S. as a child. He registered to vote in Cass County, Missouri, in 2004, prior to obtaining his legal permanent resident status in 2009 under President Barack Obama's administration.

Where and When

The alleged illegal voting took place in Cass County, Missouri. García registered to vote in 2004 and is believed to have participated in at least 15 elections over two decades, with 13 of those being federal elections.

His arrest occurred on October 6th, following the filing of charges. The accusations suggest he knew he was not a U.S. citizen but falsely declared himself as one during his voter registrations in 2004 and again in 2013.

Why It Matters

This case highlights ongoing federal investigations into non-citizens participating in U.S. elections. Such actions, if proven, undermine the integrity of the electoral process. The issue has gained prominence in recent political discourse.

For legal permanent residents, the right to live and work in the U.S. is granted, but voting in federal, state, or local elections is strictly prohibited unless they are naturalized citizens.

What The Parties Say

The Department of Justice has brought forth the charges against García. Federal authorities, including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), a division of ICE, conducted the arrest. They have reminded the public that legal permanent residents do not have the right to vote in U.S. elections.

There has been no immediate statement from García or his legal representation regarding the charges.

What Comes Next

If convicted, Andrés García could face up to one year in prison and a fine of up to $100,000 for each of the two charges he faces. The case will proceed through the U.S. legal system, with further court proceedings to be scheduled.

Authorities will continue to investigate the extent of his alleged participation in elections. This situation underscores the importance of verifying citizenship status for voter registration and participation.