Story perspectives

DOJ Expands Voter Roll Lawsuit to 29 States

2/27/2026

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) expanded its lawsuit to include Kentucky and four other states, totaling 29 states and the District of Columbia.
The DOJ says it needs voter registration data to maintain clean voter rolls.
The DOJ has shared data with the Department of Homeland Security for citizenship verification.
Kentucky's election officials counter that roll management is effective.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi emphasized importance of accurate voter rolls.

History

Historical Context

The Voting Rights Act of 1965, signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson on August 6, aimed to eliminate racial discrimination in voting, particularly in the South. It prohibited literacy tests and established federal oversight in jurisdictions with a history of voter suppression. The Act significantly increased Black voter registration, with nearly 250,000 new voters registered by the end of 1965, reflecting ongoing struggles for electoral equality.

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Story summary

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) expanded its lawsuit to include Kentucky and four other states, totaling 29 states and the District of Columbia.
The DOJ says it needs voter registration data to maintain clean voter rolls.
The DOJ has shared data with the Department of Homeland Security for citizenship verification.
Kentucky's election officials counter that roll management is effective.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi emphasized importance of accurate voter rolls.

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