Story perspectives

Ten Alaskans Charged with Voter Misconduct Over Citizenship

9/6/2025

36 5

Summary

Story summary

Ten Alaska residents face voter misconduct charges for allegedly misrepresenting their citizenship status as American Samoans.
The state claims they falsely registered as U.S. citizens while voting in Whittier.
American Samoans are U.S. nationals, which complicates their voting rights.
Tupe Smith, charged after winning a 2023 school board election, cites unclear registration options.
Advocacy groups argue the state mishandled citizenship determinations prior to the charges.

1 of 1

Story summary

Ten Alaska residents face voter misconduct charges for allegedly misrepresenting their citizenship status as American Samoans.
The state claims they falsely registered as U.S. citizens while voting in Whittier.
American Samoans are U.S. nationals, which complicates their voting rights.
Tupe Smith, charged after winning a 2023 school board election, cites unclear registration options.
Advocacy groups argue the state mishandled citizenship determinations prior to the charges.