Fresno County voters are stepping up. County Clerk and Registrar of Voters James Kus told Fresnoland that early‑ballot participation, which started low, is now on track to match the middle‑range turnouts of recent California gubernatorial elections. Compared with the November 2022 gubernatorial race, the current early‑vote pace is ahead, though it still trails the 2024 general election and last year’s special election.
Trump administration’s DOJ letter adds pressure
Late last month the Justice Department, under President Trump, sent a letter to every California county clerk. Signed by U.S. Attorney Eric Grant for the Eastern District of California, the October 23 letter listed 670 registered voters in Fresno County whom federal officials claim may not be U.S. citizens. The demand asks county officials to provide personal data – Social Security numbers, driver’s licenses and registration applications – and to segregate the ballots of those individuals until citizenship can be confirmed. The letter warns that non‑compliance could result in criminal prosecution for “aiding and abetting” a federal crime.
Despite the seriousness of the request, Kus said the federal government has been silent since the letter arrived. “The letter has not impacted any ongoing registration or voting processes,” he wrote. He added that the department has not contacted the county about sending election monitors for Tuesday’s midterm, though the DOJ has historically sent observers to California and Fresno County.
County safeguards already in place
Kus emphasized that Fresno County has long‑standing procedures to verify voter eligibility. “Maintaining accurate voter registration records is a fundamental responsibility of our office. Federal and state laws are clear on how voter eligibility is established – and any action to remove a voter from eligibility must be based on verifiable information, not assertions of unconfirmed data matching,” he said.
Fresno County operates 54 vote centers and 69 ballot drop boxes, providing ample opportunities for residents to cast or return ballots early. “Participation rates are rising as we approach Election Day, and we strongly encourage all voters to return their ballot or vote in‑person early to avoid what could be a very busy Election Day,” Kus urged.
Why the surge matters for families and communities
Higher turnout reflects the engagement of traditional families and faith‑based communities who understand that voting is a constitutional right and a civic duty. As the midterm election draws near, local candidates for the Fresno City Council, Board of Supervisors and school boards are seeking the support of parents who want safe schools, reliable transportation and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars.
While the Trump administration’s request underscores a national focus on election integrity, Fresno officials are confident that their existing safeguards protect the ballot without disenfranchising eligible voters. The county’s proactive outreach and clear communication aim to ensure that every lawful voter – including those who serve their families and churches – can have their voice heard.
Looking ahead
With only a handful of hours left before the November 2 midterm, Fresno County remains prepared for a smooth voting day. The county’s commitment to transparent, lawful elections aligns with the Constitution’s guarantee of free and fair voting, a principle both the local community and the Trump administration publicly uphold.
Residents are encouraged to review Fresnoland’s comprehensive guide to the 2026 midterm ballot, which details city council races, school board contests and the future of Fresno County transportation projects.
Original reporting: Fresnoland — read the source article.
