Noncitizen Charged for Voting in Minnesota’s 2024 Election
A Fillmore County man faces felony counts after investigators say he voted in the 2024 election while not a U.S. citizen. The criminal complaint identifies him as Mukeshkumar Somabhai Chaudhari, 39.
Allegations and timeline
Authorities say Chaudhari registered to vote on March 12, 2023. He was added to the voter rolls on March 27, 2023.
Records reviewed by investigators indicate Chaudhari signed and submitted a ballot at a Spring Valley polling place on Nov. 5, 2024. Officials allege the ballot signature matched his Minnesota driver’s license.
Interview details and claimed mistake
According to the complaint, Chaudhari initially denied voting in 2024. He later acknowledged casting a ballot and described it as a mistake.
Investigators say he told them he was not a U.S. citizen. He also said he received a voter registration notice after obtaining a state driver’s license and completed the form.
Charges, court date and source
Chaudhari has been charged by summons with perjury and a voting violation. His first court appearance is scheduled for May 18.
This account is based on a Fillmore County criminal complaint and reporting by Filmogaz.com.
State election system changes and guidance
The Minnesota Secretary of State’s Office notes system changes that took effect April 29, 2024. Before that date, anyone over 18 who applied for a state ID could receive a postcard explaining voter registration rules.
That postcard included explicit language that only U.S. citizens are eligible to register. After April 29, automatic voter registration began. The new process requires proof of U.S. citizenship and other checks before adding individuals to the rolls.
Penalties and enforcement
- The office warns that only U.S. citizens may vote in Minnesota elections.
- Penalties for voting while ineligible can include deportation and a permanent bar to future citizenship.
- Other possible penalties are fines up to $10,000 and up to five years in prison.
The Secretary of State’s Office says ineligible voting is rare. Since 2020, Minnesota has recorded 14 convictions for voting while ineligible.
This incident, described in local criminal filings, is part of broader attention to noncitizen voting and enforcement. Authorities say the case will proceed through the courts. Filmogaz.com will continue to follow updates.
