The Latino Civil rights group, League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), is standing up against what they see as unjust raids directed by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton targeting their members. LULAC has called for a federal investigation into Paxton’s actions, and their national president has met with U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland and the FBI to discuss a resolution.
These raids, according to LULAC, are voter intimidation tactics aimed at deterring Latino voters from casting their ballots in November. The group, along with others, held a news conference in Houston to bring attention to the issue. Paxton claims the raids are part of a two-year investigation into alleged election fraud, but LULAC and others argue that it’s voter harassment and voter suppression.
Cecilia Castellano, a Democrat running for Texas House District 80, was among those targeted in the raids. She spoke out, stating that her business, family, and campaign are all under attack. The district she is running for is also a target for Gov. Greg Abbott, who hopes to flip the seat for Republicans to advance his school voucher plan.
Paxton’s investigation aligns with a larger Republican effort to highlight noncitizen voting and registration, despite the Secretary of State’s Office noting no unusual activity in noncitizen voter registration. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has expressed interest in the Texas Senate looking into noncitizen voting, emphasizing the importance of election integrity.
These events mark a crucial moment in Texas politics, with tensions rising over allegations of voter suppression and intimidation. LULAC and its allies are determined to protect the rights of Latino voters and ensure fair elections for all. The fight continues, and the outcome could have far-reaching implications for the future of voting rights in the state.