Minnesota Woman Accused of Using Deceased Mother’s Identity to Vote

Roll of "I Voted" stickers on table.

A Minnesota woman faces felony charges for allegedly voting on behalf of her deceased mother, highlighting the effectiveness of election integrity measures.

At a Glance

  • Danielle Christine Miller charged with felony voter fraud for submitting an absentee ballot for her deceased mother
  • The fraudulent ballot was detected through routine election safeguards
  • Miller faces up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine per charge
  • Case underscores the rarity of voter fraud and the efficiency of detection systems

Voter Fraud Allegations Emerge in Northern Minnesota

In a striking case of alleged voter fraud, Danielle Christine Miller from northern Minnesota has been charged with three felonies for attempting to cast a vote on behalf of her deceased mother, Rose Maria Javorina. The incident, which occurred during the recent election cycle, has brought attention to the robustness of election integrity measures in place to prevent such illegal activities.

According to reports, Javorina passed away on August 31, but an absentee ballot in her name was submitted on October 7, raising immediate suspicions. The Itasca County Auditor’s Office flagged the ballots due to discrepancies in the signature envelopes, which were filled out in black ink and appeared remarkably similar.

Swift Detection and Legal Consequences

The case came to light through routine election safeguards, including a monthly list of deceased individuals provided to election officials. Itasca County Attorney Jake Fauchald emphasized the effectiveness of these measures, stating:

“It was flagged almost immediately” – Source

Miller now faces two felony charges: intentionally making or signing a false certificate and casting an illegal vote or aiding another. If convicted, she could face up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine per charge. Her first court appearance is scheduled for December 4.

Implications for Election Integrity

This case serves as a testament to the commitment of election officials in preserving the fairness and transparency of elections. Itasca County Auditor Austin Rohling noted that while minor irregularities occur, intentional fraud is rare, and the election system is functioning as intended.

“The system’s working the way it should” – Source

It’s worth noting that this is the first voter fraud case in Itasca County during the current election cycle. An Associated Press investigation found minimal voter fraud in the 2020 election, insufficient to alter the outcome. In Minnesota, as in 16 other states, ballots cast by individuals who die before Election Day are not counted, further safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process.

Legal Framework for Voting Rights

The incident also brings attention to the legal framework surrounding voting rights in the United States. Title 52 of the U.S. Code addresses voting and elections, focusing on voting rights and interference with elections. Section 10101 of Title 52 ensures that all U.S. citizens qualified by law are entitled to vote without discrimination based on race, color, or previous servitude.

The Attorney General has the authority to seek preventive relief through civil actions if voting rights are threatened, and U.S. district courts have jurisdiction over proceedings related to voting rights without requiring exhaustion of other remedies. These provisions underscore the nation’s commitment to protecting the fundamental right to vote while maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.

Sources:

  1. MN voter fraud: Woman cast ballot for Trump under dead mom’s name, charges say
  2. Title 52- Voting and Elections- Subtitle I and II
  3. Minnesota woman accused of turning in ballot for dead mother is charged with three felonies