DOJ confirms voter data sharing with Homeland Security in Ohio
COLUMBUS — The U.S. Department of Justice confirmed it has been sharing Ohio voter registration data with the Department of Homeland Security while denying allegations that federal agencies are building a national voter database.
The confirmation came in response to concerns raised by Ohio election officials and civil liberties advocates about potential federal overreach in state election administration. DOJ officials said the data sharing is part of routine security measures and does not constitute the creation of a centralized voter registry.
“We share certain voter registration information with DHS as part of our ongoing efforts to protect election infrastructure,” a DOJ spokesperson said in a statement. “This does not involve building any kind of national voter list.”
State Officials Seek Clarification
Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose’s office had requested details about the data sharing arrangement after receiving reports from multiple counties about federal information requests. The requests focused on voter registration records and election security protocols.
LaRose, a Republican, said his office will continue monitoring federal data collection activities to ensure they comply with state laws governing voter privacy. Ohio law requires specific justifications for accessing voter registration databases.
“We want to make sure any federal involvement in our election processes follows proper procedures and respects voter privacy,” LaRose said through a spokesperson.
Civil Rights Groups Express Concerns
The American Civil Liberties Union of Ohio raised questions about the scope and purpose of the data sharing arrangement. ACLU officials said voters deserve transparency about how their personal information is being used by federal agencies.
“Ohioans need to know what voter data is being shared, why it’s being shared, and what safeguards are in place,” said ACLU of Ohio Executive Director Gary Daniels. “Voter registration should not become a pathway for federal surveillance.”
The organization has not announced plans to challenge the data sharing in court but said it is reviewing available legal options.
Election Security Measures
DHS officials said the information sharing is part of broader election security initiatives implemented since 2016. The agency works with state and local election officials to identify potential cybersecurity threats and protect voting infrastructure.
Federal agencies have increased coordination with state election offices following concerns about foreign interference in elections. Ohio participated in several DHS cybersecurity programs designed to strengthen election systems against potential attacks.
The DOJ statement did not specify what types of voter data are being shared or how frequently information is exchanged between agencies. Officials said the arrangements follow existing federal guidelines for interagency cooperation on election security.
County election boards across Ohio reported receiving federal information requests over the past year, though most described the requests as routine security assessments. Board of elections officials in Franklin, Hamilton, and Cuyahoga counties confirmed receiving such requests.
The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between state and federal authorities over election administration. Ohio maintains control over its voter registration system while participating in interstate databases designed to prevent duplicate registrations.
DOJ officials emphasized that data sharing arrangements do not interfere with state authority over election processes. The department said it remains committed to supporting state-led election security efforts without creating federal oversight mechanisms.
Sources: Ohio Capital Journal
