The Los Angeles City Council voted 10-5 on June 17 to advance a motion that could allow non-citizens to vote in municipal elections. If approved by voters this November, the measure would amend the city charter to grant local voting rights to non-citizens, though it wouldn’t apply to state or federal elections.
Why is the City Council considering non-citizen voting?
Councilman Hugo Soto-Martínez, who represents the 13th District, authored the motion to establish a residential voting campaign. He argues that hundreds of thousands of Angelenos contribute to the city by paying taxes, raising families, and supporting local businesses. Soto-Martínez believes these residents deserve a voice in local issues that affect their daily lives.
The proposal is supported by various immigrant rights groups and community advocates. Grace McManus, a legal permanent resident and member of the Pilipino Workers Center, said she’s lived and worked in Los Angeles since 2002. She noted that as a caregiver, she’s often felt “invisible and unheard” despite her contributions to the city.
What are the concerns regarding implementation?
While the majority supported the motion, five councilmembers voted against it. Councilmember Monica Rodriguez expressed concern that the proposal hasn’t been adequately vetted, noting that the county administers local elections. She also warned that creating a new non-citizen voter database might increase exposure and risks for immigrant communities.
Other opponents raised concerns about legal and fiscal impacts. Councilmember Bob Blumenfield described the policy as “half-baked” and suggested it could lead to a “serious legal predicament.” He also stated the measure could give the council “unprecedented power” to expand voter rolls in undefined ways.
Councilmember John Lee also opposed the measure, arguing it could undermine public confidence. He stated that giving politicians the authority to change election laws and determine eligibility could be viewed as a way to benefit allies or disadvantage opponents.
What happens next for the ballot measure?
The council has asked the city attorney to draft the specific language for the ballot initiative. Once drafted, the measure must return to the City Council for a final vote on the language. It also requires approval from Mayor Karen Bass before it can officially appear on the November ballot.
It’s still not determined how the term “non-citizen” will be defined in the initiative. If the measure passes the vote in November, additional steps will be required to establish registration procedures, eligibility requirements, and safeguards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this allow non-citizens to vote in all elections?
No. The proposed program would only allow non-citizens to vote in L.A. city elections, not county, state, or federal elections.
What is the current status of the proposal?
The City Council has voted 10-5 to ask the city attorney to draft language for a ballot initiative.
What must happen before the measure reaches the November ballot?
The measure needs a final vote from the City Council on the ballot language and must be approved by Mayor Karen Bass.
Should local residents have a say in municipal decisions regardless of their citizenship status?
