Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched a public email tipline for reporting suspected violations of Texas election law and issued an election integrity advisory ahead of the March primary.
Paxton’s office said Texans can report suspected election law violations by emailing [email protected].
In the advisory, the Office of the Attorney General stated that “Significant growth of the noncitizen population in Texas and a pattern of partisan efforts to illegally weaponize voter registration and the voting process to manipulate electoral outcomes have created urgent risks to local, state, and federal elections.”
Who Can Vote In Texas
The advisory states that a voter must be a United States citizen and a Texas resident.
It warns that it is a crime to vote in Texas if you are not a United States citizen and a Texas resident, or to help someone vote who is not. The advisory states violators “can be sentenced to up to 20 years in prison and pay up to a $10,000 fine.”
It also states that it is a crime to lie about citizenship when registering to vote or to help someone else do so.
The advisory further states that a person is not automatically a United States citizen solely because they are:
- Residing in the United States
- Lawfully present in the United States
- Legally permitted to work in the United States
- Granted asylum or seeking asylum
- Issued a Social Security number
- Issued a driver’s license or other state-issued identification card
“Vote Harvesting Is A Felony”
The advisory states: “Vote harvesting is a felony.”
It warns voters to be cautious of individuals who offer to help apply for a mail-in ballot, help fill out a ballot, or offer to mail a ballot, stating that Texas law limits who can assist with casting a ballot.
Voter Rights And Ballot Privacy
The advisory states that voters have the right to:
- Vote independently. “No one should ever tell you who to vote for while you are voting.”
- Decide how to vote. “No one should pressure you to vote by mail if you prefer to vote in person.”
- Vote your ballot in private. “No one should help or watch how you vote without your permission.”
- Seal and mail your ballot yourself. If you qualify for and choose to vote using a mail-in ballot, “you should not allow another person to seal or mail your ballot unless you are physically unable to do so.” The advisory states a voter may seek assistance in sealing or mailing a ballot if physically incapacitated
Residency And Election Records
The advisory states it is illegal to misrepresent a residence on election records or establish a residence for the purpose of influencing the outcome of an election.
It also states that voters must register using the address where they reside and that it is illegal to submit a false statement of residence on election records.
Disabled Voter Protections
The advisory states that influencing a disabled voter’s vote is illegal and warns voters to be cautious of individuals who approach homes offering to help with ballots.
It also states that anyone assisting a voter must complete an oath attesting they did not attempt to influence the vote.
Restrictions On Government Electioneering
The advisory states that public officials and employees, including school district officials, may not use public resources to advocate, support, or oppose a candidate or measure.
It states that it is a crime for public employees and officers to use public personnel, equipment, internet, email, or facilities to distribute political advertising.
How To Report Suspected Violations
The advisory states that suspected election violations may be reported to:
- The Texas Attorney General’s Office at [email protected]
- The Texas Secretary of State
- A local district attorney
- Local law enforcement
Paxton Statement
“Under my watch, there will be no stolen elections in Texas. Free and fair elections are a cornerstone of a thriving republic, and with the authority granted to my office by the Legislature, we will stop at nothing to uncover and stop any illegal voting activity,” Paxton said. “I invite all Texans to report suspected violations at our tipline, [email protected]. Your liberties and your representation in our government depend on secure elections. I will continue to protect the integrity of your vote and your voice.”
