US President Donald Trump has intensified warnings against election fraud, with his administration stepping up federal investigations and prosecutions of alleged illegal voting ahead of the November 3 congressional midterm elections.

The administration has placed particular emphasis on preventing non-US citizens from voting in federal elections, an offence under US law. Federal prosecutors have warned that individuals who violate election laws, as well as officials who knowingly facilitate unlawful voting, could face criminal prosecution.

The renewed warnings come amid a growing dispute between the federal government and California election officials over mail-in ballots and voter registration records. The Justice Department has challenged California’s handling of ballots associated with more than 20,000 people whom the administration suspects may not be US citizens.

Trump has publicly threatened legal consequences for officials who refuse to comply with the administration’s demands. California officials, however, have questioned the reliability of the federal government’s information and raised concerns about potential interference with lawful voting rights.

The controversy has intensified debate over the balance between election security, federal authority and states’ responsibility for administering elections. While non-citizen voting is illegal in federal elections, available research indicates that confirmed cases are rare.

With control of the House of Representatives and Senate at stake in November, the administration’s actions are likely to keep election integrity and voting access at the centre of the US political debate.

The outcome of the legal challenges and the enforcement measures could have significant implications for election administration and public confidence in the democratic process.

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