San Jose, California - Debate continues as SJ explores allowing non-citizens to vote in local elections

A coalition of immigrant advocate groups rallied ahead of Tuesday's city council study session. It presented them with an effort to encourage leaders to extend voting eligibility in local elections to all residents, regardless of immigration status.

We're looking to get out of it is just inclusion," Arturo Muñoz with SOMOS Mayfair said.

He explained the move would present a vital opportunity for an estimated 200,000 residents who currently cannot vote.

No vote or action was planned for Tuesday's study session. The meeting was specifically meant to get a better understanding of the issue.

As it stands, federal law states that it is unlawful for a non-citizen to vote in federal elections. However, it doesn't address citizenship and voting in state or local elections.

https://abc7news.com/sj-non-citizens-voting-san-jose-local-elections-can-vote-in/12159875/