Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin has responded assertively to a lawsuit filed by the Department of Justice challenging the state's enforcement of an election law aimed at ensuring the eligibility of voters.

The law, established in 2006 under then-Democratic Gov. Tim Kaine, mandates an individualized examination of Department of Motor Vehicles records to confirm that only citizens are registered to vote, and Youngkin emphasizes that it has operated seamlessly across multiple administrations without prior federal notice, forcing the Biden-Harris DOJ to continue its case, Fox News reports.

Youngkin's response comes after the DOJ filed a lawsuit on Oct. 11, questioning the state's execution of a law designed to prevent noncitizens from being falsely registered to vote.

The law scrutinizes individuals who self-identify as noncitizens during their DMV visits but somehow appear on voter rolls, initiating a process where these individuals have 14 days to validate their citizenship or face removal from the rolls.

Youngkin Voices Concerns Over Timing, Motives

The Virginia law, which includes safeguards such as allowing those mistakenly removed to re-register the same day and cast a provisional vote, has been applied by both Democratic and Republican governors before the latest DOJ suit.

Youngkin stressed that the law was reviewed and approved by the Department of Justice in 2006, being recognized as constitutional.

The governor highlighted the timing of the DOJ's action, as it comes just 25 days before an election, raising questions about the possible motives behind the lawsuit. He asserted that the focus is on citizens voting, maintaining that the review is a conscious effort to confirm voter eligibility.

Longstanding Practice Without Prior Challenge

Emphasizing historical consistency, Youngkin pointed out that previous governors, including Democrats Terry McAuliffe and Ralph Northam, enforced the law during the quiet period without any reports of legal challenges from the DOJ.

Under Virginia Codes 24.2-439 and 24.2-1019, registrars are mandated to cancel noncitizen registrations and notify local prosecutors if someone self-identifies as a noncitizen.

Youngkin reiterated his dedication to ensuring fair electoral procedures, underscoring that efforts are made for the thorough cleanliness of voter rolls.

He insisted that elections in the U.S. should solely be determined by citizens, suggesting the removal of any obstacles to achieving that aim.

Reaffirming Commitment to Electoral Integrity

Youngkin described the process as "individualized," clarifying that it is not a comprehensive purge. The effort starts with an individual proclaiming noncitizen status at the DMV, which then triggers a verification procedure to confirm their inability to vote. This statement was part of Youngkin's argument defending the common sense and constitutional legitimacy of the law.

In response to the DOJ's challenge, Youngkin raised an important question about the appropriateness of registering noncitizens, considering it a fundamental issue of fairness. He pledged to maintain voter rolls that solely include lawful citizens, underscoring the state's protocol for transparent elections.

The law includes provisions to safeguard the right to vote, ensuring that citizens who are mistakenly removed have an opportunity to vote using a provisional ballot. Youngkin reassured that Virginia uses paper ballots, counting equipment, and robust custody protocols to guarantee precise and secure election outcomes.

Gov. Youngkin concluded with a firm commitment to uphold the integrity of Virginia's election processes, outlining a comprehensive strategy to eliminate noncitizen entries from voter rolls. He expressed, once again, his commitment to maintaining a precise and secure electoral system in Virginia.

Ultimately, this clash between Virginia and the DOJ centers on the steadfastness of an 18-year-old law, where the state's focus remains on reinforcing a legitimate voter list.

Youngkin's defense projects a continued pledge to election integrity as Virginia nears its election day, awaiting judicial opinions on the law's application.

In conclusion, the controversy over Virginia's election law under Gov. Glenn Youngkin's administration highlights complex legal questions regarding citizenship verification and federal oversight, as the state endeavors to uphold voter integrity while facing scrutiny from the DOJ. As the situation progresses, attention remains focused on potential implications for the upcoming election.