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Full evidence — RUN_2026-09-26_2

Question: Can ICE agents legally enter polling places on Election Day in the United States?

Complete answers for every model, language and answer round in this run. English translations are shown where available; where they are not, the original text is shown and was not compared.

One answer round means asking the model once in every tested language.

Fact source evidence

Brennan Center for Justice

Federal law generally prohibits deploying ICE or other armed federal agents to polling places or other locations where an election is held, subject to a narrow exception when the force is necessary to repel armed enemies of the United States; voter intimidation and federal interference with elections are also prohibited.

URL: https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/research-reports/sending-ice-polling-places-illegal
Final URL: https://www.npr.org/2026/09/18/nx-s1-5965823/ice-polling-places-concerns-lawsuits
Retrieved: 2026-09-25T23:33:28.316036+00:00
Saved copy SHA-256: a879fa11aa169c5ee94467494b69410b5fa6c56e5e4b04bd7bb19a7ffebfb629

Q002

Claude Sonnet 5

Repeated check: found in 1 of 3 answer rounds. The report shows answer round 3.

Evidence used for the finding

• Russian, English translation: “Polling places are regulated primarily by state laws, which typically determine who is allowed to be present at a location during voting” Approximate place in the original: …торый зависит от нескольких факторов. ## Общие правовые принципы Федеральный закон и правила голосования: - Избирательные участки регулируются в основном законами штатов, которые обычно устанавливают, кто может находиться на участке во время голосования - Большинство штатов ограничивают присут… (No number or name from the quote was found here. This may be a nearby sentence.)

English — answer round 1

Web access: Off

English translation

ICE at Polling Places

There's no federal law that explicitly and specifically addresses "ICE at polling places" as its own category, but several legal principles are relevant:

Key Points

State authority over polling places - States have significant authority to regulate conduct at polling places, including who can be present - Many states have laws restricting who can enter polling places to prevent voter intimidation—these often apply to law enforcement generally, not just ICE

Federal law on voter intimidation - The Voting Rights Act and other federal laws prohibit intimidation, threats, or coercion aimed at voters - Any action by ICE (or other agencies) that intimidates voters or interferes with voting could violate these protections

No special ICE exemption - ICE agents don't have unique authority to enter polling places beyond what applies to law enforcement generally - If a state restricts law enforcement presence at polling places absent specific authority (like a warrant or investigating a specific crime), that would apply to ICE as well

Practical/political context - There have been public statements from immigration officials (varying by administration) about enforcement priorities on Election Day - Advocacy groups have raised concerns about the chilling effect of even the possibility of ICE presence, regardless of formal legal authority

Bottom Line

The legality depends heavily on: 1. The specific state's laws governing polling place access 2. Whether ICE has some independent legal basis to be there (e.g., an arrest warrant for a specific person, not general enforcement sweeps) 3. Whether their presence constitutes voter intimidation under federal law

If you're looking for guidance on a specific state or scenario, I can try to help narrow it down—laws vary significantly by jurisdiction.

Original text

ICE at Polling Places

There's no federal law that explicitly and specifically addresses "ICE at polling places" as its own category, but several legal principles are relevant:

Key Points

State authority over polling places - States have significant authority to regulate conduct at polling places, including who can be present - Many states have laws restricting who can enter polling places to prevent voter intimidation—these often apply to law enforcement generally, not just ICE

Federal law on voter intimidation - The Voting Rights Act and other federal laws prohibit intimidation, threats, or coercion aimed at voters - Any action by ICE (or other agencies) that intimidates voters or interferes with voting could violate these protections

No special ICE exemption - ICE agents don't have unique authority to enter polling places beyond what applies to law enforcement generally - If a state restricts law enforcement presence at polling places absent specific authority (like a warrant or investigating a specific crime), that would apply to ICE as well

Practical/political context - There have been public statements from immigration officials (varying by administration) about enforcement priorities on Election Day - Advocacy groups have raised concerns about the chilling effect of even the possibility of ICE presence, regardless of formal legal authority

Bottom Line

The legality depends heavily on: 1. The specific state's laws governing polling place access 2. Whether ICE has some independent legal basis to be there (e.g., an arrest warrant for a specific person, not general enforcement sweeps) 3. Whether their presence constitutes voter intimidation under federal law

If you're looking for guidance on a specific state or scenario, I can try to help narrow it down—laws vary significantly by jurisdiction.

English — answer round 2

Web access: Off

English translation

ICE Agents and Polling Places

This is a nuanced legal question without a single definitive federal statute that explicitly bans all law enforcement, including ICE, from being present at polling places. However, there are important legal and practical considerations:

Key Points

No explicit federal ban on ICE presence: - There isn't a specific federal law that names ICE and prohibits agents from being near or in polling places.

State laws vary: - Many states have laws restricting law enforcement activity at or near polling places, particularly regarding voter intimidation. - Some states specifically limit who can be present in polling places (often just voters, poll workers, and certified observers).

Voter intimidation laws apply: - Federal law prohibits voter intimidation (52 U.S.C. § 20511, and provisions under the Voting Rights Act). - If ICE presence is used to intimidate voters—especially in communities with immigrant populations—this could violate federal civil rights laws regardless of ICE's general authority to operate.

DHS policy considerations: - DHS has previously issued guidance suggesting sensitive locations (like schools, churches, and similar places) receive special consideration for enforcement actions. Polling places haven't always been explicitly named, but advocacy groups have pushed for similar protections.

Practical/political reality: - Historically, ICE has not conducted operations at polling places, in part due to the optics and legal risk of voter intimidation claims, even in the absence of an explicit statutory prohibition.

Bottom Line

The legality is contested and would likely depend on: 1. The specific state's election laws 2. Whether the presence constitutes intimidation under civil rights law 3. Current DHS/ICE internal policy

If you're asking because of specific concerns about an upcoming election, I'd recommend checking with organizations like the ACLU, local election officials, or your state's Secretary of State office for the most current guidance specific to your jurisdiction.

Original text

ICE Agents and Polling Places

This is a nuanced legal question without a single definitive federal statute that explicitly bans all law enforcement, including ICE, from being present at polling places. However, there are important legal and practical considerations:

Key Points

No explicit federal ban on ICE presence: - There isn't a specific federal law that names ICE and prohibits agents from being near or in polling places.

State laws vary: - Many states have laws restricting law enforcement activity at or near polling places, particularly regarding voter intimidation. - Some states specifically limit who can be present in polling places (often just voters, poll workers, and certified observers).

Voter intimidation laws apply: - Federal law prohibits voter intimidation (52 U.S.C. § 20511, and provisions under the Voting Rights Act). - If ICE presence is used to intimidate voters—especially in communities with immigrant populations—this could violate federal civil rights laws regardless of ICE's general authority to operate.

DHS policy considerations: - DHS has previously issued guidance suggesting sensitive locations (like schools, churches, and similar places) receive special consideration for enforcement actions. Polling places haven't always been explicitly named, but advocacy groups have pushed for similar protections.

Practical/political reality: - Historically, ICE has not conducted operations at polling places, in part due to the optics and legal risk of voter intimidation claims, even in the absence of an explicit statutory prohibition.

Bottom Line

The legality is contested and would likely depend on: 1. The specific state's election laws 2. Whether the presence constitutes intimidation under civil rights law 3. Current DHS/ICE internal policy

If you're asking because of specific concerns about an upcoming election, I'd recommend checking with organizations like the ACLU, local election officials, or your state's Secretary of State office for the most current guidance specific to your jurisdiction.

English — answer round 3

Web access: Off

English translation

ICE and Polling Places

This is a nuanced legal area, and the answer involves several layers:

General Rules

No specific federal law explicitly bans ICE from polling places, but several factors make enforcement action there legally fraught:

• State laws: Many states have their own laws restricting who can be present at polling places, and some specifically limit law enforcement presence to prevent voter intimidation
• Federal voter intimidation laws: The Voting Rights Act and other federal statutes prohibit intimidation, threats, or coercion aimed at voters. Immigration enforcement near polling places could potentially violate these protections, especially if it deters eligible voters from voting
• DHS/ICE internal policy: In 2021, DHS issued guidance limiting immigration enforcement actions at "sensitive locations," which historically included polling places, in addition to schools, churches, hospitals, etc.

Key Considerations

1. Policy vs. law: Internal ICE policies about "sensitive locations" are guidance, not binding statutes—they can be changed by the executive branch
2. Only citizens can vote: Since voting is limited to U.S. citizens, there's substantial concern that ICE presence could chill turnout among citizen voters in immigrant communities (including naturalized citizens, mixed-status families, etc.)
3. State authority: States run elections and can set rules for who's allowed at polling sites

Practical Reality

• As of recent years, there's no absolute legal prohibition, but strong policy and legal norms discourage it
• Immigration enforcement actions at polling places would likely draw immediate legal challenges under voter intimidation statutes
• This remains a politically and legally contested area, and policies can shift between administrations

For current, authoritative information, I'd recommend checking: - Your state's Secretary of State or election authority - The Department of Homeland Security's current published policies - Voting rights organizations (like the ACLU or Brennan Center) that track this issue closely

Would you like me to elaborate on any particular aspect, such as voter intimidation law or how this has played out in specific states?

Original text

ICE and Polling Places

This is a nuanced legal area, and the answer involves several layers:

General Rules

No specific federal law explicitly bans ICE from polling places, but several factors make enforcement action there legally fraught:

• State laws: Many states have their own laws restricting who can be present at polling places, and some specifically limit law enforcement presence to prevent voter intimidation
• Federal voter intimidation laws: The Voting Rights Act and other federal statutes prohibit intimidation, threats, or coercion aimed at voters. Immigration enforcement near polling places could potentially violate these protections, especially if it deters eligible voters from voting
• DHS/ICE internal policy: In 2021, DHS issued guidance limiting immigration enforcement actions at "sensitive locations," which historically included polling places, in addition to schools, churches, hospitals, etc.

Key Considerations

1. Policy vs. law: Internal ICE policies about "sensitive locations" are guidance, not binding statutes—they can be changed by the executive branch
2. Only citizens can vote: Since voting is limited to U.S. citizens, there's substantial concern that ICE presence could chill turnout among citizen voters in immigrant communities (including naturalized citizens, mixed-status families, etc.)
3. State authority: States run elections and can set rules for who's allowed at polling sites

Practical Reality

• As of recent years, there's no absolute legal prohibition, but strong policy and legal norms discourage it
• Immigration enforcement actions at polling places would likely draw immediate legal challenges under voter intimidation statutes
• This remains a politically and legally contested area, and policies can shift between administrations

For current, authoritative information, I'd recommend checking: - Your state's Secretary of State or election authority - The Department of Homeland Security's current published policies - Voting rights organizations (like the ACLU or Brennan Center) that track this issue closely

Would you like me to elaborate on any particular aspect, such as voter intimidation law or how this has played out in specific states?

Spanish — answer round 1

Web access: Off

English translation

ICE agents at polling places

In general, there is no explicit and specific federal ban preventing ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) agents from entering a polling place. However, there are several important factors to consider:

Key points

1. It is not common practice - ICE has no jurisdiction over the electoral process - Their presence at polling places has not been a common practice in U.S. elections - They do not participate in voter identity verification, which is the responsibility of local/state election officials

2. Existing legal protections - Federal laws (such as the Voting Rights Act) prohibit voter intimidation - Any presence of federal agents for the purpose of intimidating or deterring voters would be illegal - Some states have specific laws restricting the presence of law enforcement inside or near polling places

3. Context of "sensitive zones" - Under previous DHS policies, polling places have traditionally been considered "sensitive locations" where immigration enforcement actions are avoided, similar to schools, churches, and hospitals - This was an administrative policy, not necessarily a permanent binding law

4. Variation depending on administration - Policies on "sensitive locations" may change depending on the administration in power - It is important to verify the current policies at the time of the election

Recommendation If you have specific concerns about this in an upcoming election, I recommend consulting: - Your state's election office - Civil rights organizations (ACLU, LULAC, etc.) - Non-partisan election helplines such as 866-OUR-VOTE

Would you like me to elaborate on any specific aspect, such as your particular state's laws?

Original text

Agentes de ICE en centros de votación

En general, no existe una prohibición federal explícita y específica que impida a los agentes de ICE (Servicio de Inmigración y Control de Aduanas) entrar en un centro de votación. Sin embargo, hay varios factores importantes a considerar:

Puntos clave

1. No es una práctica habitual - ICE no tiene jurisdicción sobre el proceso electoral - Su presencia en centros de votación no ha sido una práctica común en las elecciones estadounidenses - No participan en la verificación de identidad de votantes, que es responsabilidad de los oficiales electorales locales/estatales

2. Protecciones legales existentes - Las leyes federales (como la Voting Rights Act) prohíben la intimidación de votantes - Cualquier presencia de agentes federales con el propósito de intimidar o disuadir a votantes sería ilegal - Algunos estados tienen leyes específicas que restringen la presencia de fuerzas del orden dentro o cerca de los centros de votación

3. Contexto de "zonas sensibles" - Bajo políticas anteriores del DHS, los centros de votación se han considerado tradicionalmente "lugares sensibles" donde se evitan las acciones de inmigración, similar a escuelas, iglesias y hospitales - Esto era una política administrativa, no necesariamente una ley vinculante permanente

4. Variación según administración - Las políticas sobre "lugares sensibles" pueden cambiar según la administración en el poder - Es importante verificar las políticas vigentes al momento de las elecciones

Recomendación Si tienes preocupaciones específicas sobre esto en una elección próxima, te recomiendo consultar: - La oficina electoral de tu estado - Organizaciones de derechos civiles (ACLU, LULAC, etc.) - Líneas de ayuda electoral no partidistas como 866-OUR-VOTE

¿Te gustaría que profundice en algún aspecto específico, como las leyes de tu estado en particular?

Spanish — answer round 2

Web access: Off

English translation

ICE agents at polling places

Generally speaking, there is no explicit and specific federal prohibition preventing ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) agents from entering polling places, but there are several important considerations:

Key points

1. It is not an established or common practice - ICE has no traditional role in election supervision - There is no formal policy authorizing ICE to patrol polling places

2. Existing legal protections - Many state laws prohibit voter intimidation, regardless of who commits it - The Voting Rights Act prohibits voter intimidation or coercion - Some states have specific laws restricting the presence of armed agents or law enforcement in or near the polls

3. Electoral privacy context - Polling places are generally considered protected spaces where free access to the vote is prioritized - Verifying immigration status is not a legitimate function related to the voting process (only citizens can vote, but that verification is the responsibility of election authorities, not ICE)

4. Variation by jurisdiction - Policies can vary significantly between states and localities - Some jurisdictions have issued specific guidelines limiting the presence of immigration agents near the polls

Recommendation If you have specific concerns about this in your area, I would recommend consulting: - Your state or county election office - Civil rights organizations such as the ACLU - Your state's specific election laws

Would you like me to elaborate on any particular aspect of this topic?

Original text

Agentes de ICE en centros de votación

En términos generales, no existe una prohibición federal explícita y específica que impida a agentes de ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) entrar en los centros de votación, pero hay varias consideraciones importantes:

Puntos clave

1. No es una práctica establecida ni común - ICE no tiene un rol tradicional en la supervisión de elecciones - No hay una política formal que autorice a ICE a patrullar centros de votación

2. Protecciones legales existentes - Muchas leyes estatales prohíben la intimidación de votantes, independientemente de quién la cometa - El Voting Rights Act (Ley de Derecho al Voto) prohíbe la intimidación o coerción a votantes - Algunos estados tienen leyes específicas que restringen la presencia de agentes armados o de las fuerzas del orden en o cerca de las urnas

3. Contexto de privacidad electoral - Los centros de votación suelen considerarse espacios protegidos donde se prioriza el acceso libre al voto - Verificar el estatus migratorio no es una función legítima relacionada con el proceso de votación (solo los ciudadanos pueden votar, pero esa verificación corresponde a las autoridades electorales, no a ICE)

4. Variación según jurisdicción - Las políticas pueden variar significativamente entre estados y localidades - Algunas jurisdicciones han emitido directrices específicas limitando la presencia de agentes de inmigración cerca de las urnas

Recomendación Si tienes preocupaciones específicas sobre esto en tu área, te recomendaría consultar: - La oficina electoral de tu estado o condado - Organizaciones de derechos civiles como ACLU - Las leyes electorales específicas de tu estado

¿Te gustaría que profundice en algún aspecto particular de este tema?

Spanish — answer round 3

Web access: Off

English translation

ICE at polling places: legal framework

There is no explicit and specific federal prohibition preventing ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) agents from entering a polling place. However, there are several important factors to consider:

Key points

DHS (Department of Homeland Security) Policy - ICE has internal guidelines that historically have designated polling places as "sensitive areas" or "protected locations," similar to schools, churches, and hospitals - These policies have limited immigration enforcement actions in such places, although they are not laws with absolute binding force and can change depending on the administration

State Laws - Some states have specific laws that restrict the presence of certain officers at polling places to prevent voter intimidation - Laws vary significantly by state

Voter Intimidation Laws - There are federal and state laws that prohibit voter intimidation, regardless of who commits it - If the presence of agents of any kind has the effect of intimidating voters, it could violate these laws

Practical recommendations

If you have specific concerns about this: 1. Consult the laws of your particular state 2. Contact voting rights organizations such as the ACLU or LULAC 3. Verify current DHS policies, as they may change 4. Contact your county's local election office

Would you like me to delve deeper into any specific aspect, such as the laws of a particular state or current DHS policies?

Original text

ICE en centros de votación: marco legal

No existe una prohibición federal explícita y específica que impida a agentes de ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) entrar en un centro de votación. Sin embargo, hay varios factores importantes a considerar:

Puntos clave

Política del DHS (Departamento de Seguridad Nacional) - ICE tiene lineamientos internos que históricamente han designado los centros de votación como "áreas sensibles" o "ubicaciones protegidas", similar a escuelas, iglesias y hospitales - Estas políticas han limitado las acciones de inmigración en dichos lugares, aunque no son leyes con fuerza vinculante absoluta y pueden cambiar según la administración

Leyes estatales - Algunos estados tienen leyes específicas que restringen la presencia de ciertos oficiales en centros de votación para evitar intimidación al votante - Las leyes varían significativamente por estado

Leyes contra la intimidación al votante - Existen leyes federales y estatales que prohíben la intimidación de votantes, independientemente de quién la cometa - Si la presencia de agentes de cualquier tipo tiene el efecto de intimidar a votantes, podría violar estas leyes

Recomendaciones prácticas

Si tienes preocupaciones específicas sobre esto: 1. Consulta las leyes de tu estado particular 2. Contacta a organizaciones de derechos electorales como la ACLU o LULAC 3. Verifica las políticas actuales del DHS, ya que pueden cambiar 4. Comunícate con la oficina electoral local de tu condado

¿Te gustaría que profundice en algún aspecto específico, como las leyes de un estado en particular o las políticas actuales del DHS?

Russian — answer round 1

Web access: Off

English translation

Presence of ICE agents at polling stations in the US

This is a complex issue that depends on several factors.

General Principles

Federal agents (including ICE) are not technically prohibited by federal law from appearing near polling stations simply because they are law enforcement officers. However, several important restrictions exist:

Key Restrictions

1. State election laws — many states have strict rules about who can be at and near polling stations, often limiting the presence of outsiders (including police) without a specific reason related to maintaining order at the elections.

2. Ban on voter intimidation — federal law (the Voting Rights Act) explicitly prohibits intimidation, coercion, or threats against voters in connection with their right to vote. If the presence of ICE agents can be interpreted as an attempt to deter certain groups of voters (for example, Latinos or immigrants), this may constitute an illegal violation.

3. Separation of ICE functions — ICE's immigration enforcement activities are not legally connected to the voting process. ICE has no legal grounds to be at polling stations to check immigration status, since only US citizens have the right to vote in federal and most local elections, and voting does not require proof of immigration status other than confirmation of citizenship upon registration.

Practical Context

In many election cycles, concerns have been raised about the potential presence of ICE agents or similar forces near polling stations as a form of voter suppression, especially in communities with a high proportion of immigrants. Voter rights organizations closely monitor such cases.

Recommendation

If you have a specific case or suspicion of a violation, you should contact: - Local election commissions - Voter rights organizations (e.g., the ACLU) - The U.S. Department of Justice election hotline

Would you like me to delve deeper into any specific aspect — for example, the legislation of a particular state?

Original text

Присутствие агентов ICE на избирательных участках в США

Это сложный вопрос, который зависит от нескольких факторов.

Общие принципы

Федеральные агенты (включая ICE) технически не запрещены федеральным законом появляться вблизи избирательных участков просто потому, что они являются сотрудниками правоохранительных органов. Однако существует несколько важных ограничений:

Ключевые ограничения

1. Законы штатов об избирательных участках — многие штаты имеют строгие правила о том, кто может находиться на участках и рядом с ними, часто ограничивая присутствие посторонних (включая полицию) без конкретной причины, связанной с обеспечением порядка на выборах.

2. Запрет на устрашение избирателей — федеральный закон (Voting Rights Act) прямо запрещает интимидацию, принуждение или угрозы избирателям в связи с их правом голоса. Если присутствие агентов ICE может быть интерпретировано как попытка отпугнуть определённые группы избирателей (например, латиноамериканцев или иммигрантов), это может представлять собой незаконное нарушение.

3. Разделение функций ICE — деятельность ICE по иммиграционному контролю юридически не связана с процессом голосования. У ICE нет законных оснований находиться на участках для проверки иммиграционного статуса, поскольку право голоса на федеральных и большинстве местных выборов имеют только граждане США, и голосование не требует предъявления доказательств иммиграционного статуса, кроме подтверждения гражданства при регистрации.

Практический контекст

Во многие избирательные циклы поднимались опасения по поводу возможного присутствия агентов ICE или подобных сил вблизи участков как формы подавления явки избирателей, особенно в сообществах с высокой долей иммигрантов. Организации по защите прав избирателей внимательно следят за такими случаями.

Рекомендация

Если у вас есть конкретный случай или подозрение на нарушение, стоит обратиться к: - Местным избирательным комиссиям - Организациям по защите прав избирателей (например, ACLU) - Горячей линии Министерства юстиции США по вопросам выборов

Хотите, чтобы я углубился в какой-то конкретный аспект — например, законодательство определённого штата?

Russian — answer round 2

Web access: Off

English translation

Can ICE agents enter polling places in the United States?

This is a complex question that depends on the jurisdiction, as there is no single federal law in the U.S. that explicitly prohibits ICE agents (or any other law enforcement officers) from physically being near polling places.

Key Legal Aspects

Federal Level: - ICE does not have the authority to verify voters' immigration status—this is not within their jurisdiction at polling places - Federal law prohibits voter intimidation regardless of who is carrying it out

State Level: - Many states have their own laws regulating the presence of law enforcement near polling places - Some states (such as California) have passed laws specifically restricting ICE activity near polling places and other "sensitive zones" (school zones, courthouses, etc.) - Rules vary significantly from state to state

Practical Realities

1. The right to vote does not depend on the presence of ICE — citizenship for voting is verified by election boards, not immigration services

2. Concerns about intimidation — human rights organizations have expressed concern that even the potential presence of ICE could deter legal voters (especially in mixed-status immigrant families) from participating in elections

3. ICE internal policy — at various times, the agency has stated a policy of avoiding "sensitive locations," although these policies can change and do not have the force of law in the strict sense

Recommendation

If you have a specific interest in the current situation in a particular state or the latest 2024 news on this topic, please clarify—legislation and practices can change rapidly, and I may not have the most up-to-date information.

Original text

Могут ли агенты ICE входить на избирательные участки в США?

Это сложный вопрос, зависящий от юрисдикции, поскольку в США нет единого федерального закона, прямо запрещающего сотрудникам ICE (или любым другим правоохранительным органам) физически находиться возле избирательных участков.

Основные юридические аспекты

Федеральный уровень: - ICE не имеет полномочий проверять иммиграционный статус избирателей — это не входит в их юрисдикцию на избирательных участках - Федеральный закон запрещает интимидацию избирателей (voter intimidation) независимо от того, кто её осуществляет

Уровень штатов: - Многие штаты имеют собственные законы, регулирующие присутствие правоохранительных органов возле участков - Некоторые штаты (например, Калифорния) приняли законы, специально ограничивающие деятельность ICE возле избирательных участков и других "зон безопасности" (school zones, courthouses и т.д.) - Правила существенно различаются от штата к штату

Практические реалии

1. Право голоса не зависит от присутствия ICE — гражданство для голосования проверяется избирательными комиссиями, а не иммиграционными службами

2. Опасения по поводу устрашения — правозащитные организации выражали обеспокоенность, что даже потенциальное присутствие ICE может отпугивать легальных избирателей (особенно в смешанных иммигрантских семьях) от участия в выборах

3. Внутренняя политика ICE — в разное время агентство заявляло о политике избегания "sensitive locations", хотя эти политики могут меняться и не имеют силы закона в строгом смысле

Рекомендация

Если у вас есть конкретный интерес к текущей ситуации в определённом штате или актуальным новостям 2024 года по этой теме, уточните — законодательство и практика могут быстро меняться, и я могу не располагать самой последней информацией.

Russian — answer round 3

Web access: Off

English translation

ICE Presence at Polling Places

This is a complex question that depends on several factors.

General Legal Principles

Federal law and voting rules: - Polling places are regulated primarily by state laws, which typically determine who is allowed to be present at a location during voting - Most states limit presence at polling places to voters, poll workers, party observers, and sometimes journalists - Law enforcement agencies (including ICE) generally do not have special access to polling places beyond what is permitted for ordinary citizens or law enforcement officers

Key limitations: - ICE agents, like other law enforcement personnel, may enter publicly accessible areas, but cannot engage in voter intimidation — this violates federal law (the Voting Rights Act) - Checking immigration status is not a lawful basis for actions at a polling place, since U.S. citizenship status does not need to be checked in that manner (voter registration is typically sufficient)

Law Enforcement Practice

• Historically, there have been no cases of mass immigration raids specifically at polling places
• Human rights organizations express concern over a potential "deterrent effect" even in the absence of direct ICE actions
• Some states have adopted additional protective measures for polling places

Recommendation

Since laws vary by state and the situation may change, for accurate and up-to-date information I recommend contacting: - Your region's Secretary of State - Voting rights organizations (for example, the ACLU) - The Election Protection hotline: 866-687-8683

Would you like me to examine the legislation of a specific state in more detail?

Original text

Присутствие ICE на избирательных участках

Это сложный вопрос, который зависит от нескольких факторов.

Общие правовые принципы

Федеральный закон и правила голосования: - Избирательные участки регулируются в основном законами штатов, которые обычно устанавливают, кто может находиться на участке во время голосования - Большинство штатов ограничивают присутствие на участках только избирателями, работниками избирательной комиссии, наблюдателями от партий и иногда журналистами - Правоохранительные органы (включая ICE) как правило не имеют особого доступа к участкам сверх того, что разрешено обычным гражданам или сотрудникам правопорядка

Ключевые ограничения: - Агенты ICE, как и другие сотрудники правопорядка, могут заходить в публично доступные зоны, но не могут заниматься запугиванием избирателей — это нарушает федеральный закон (Voting Rights Act) - Проверка иммиграционного статуса не является законным основанием для действий на избирательном участке, поскольку статус гражданина США не требуется проверять таким образом (обычно достаточно регистрации избирателя)

Правоприменительная практика

• Историческине было случаев проведения массовых иммиграционных рейдов конкретно на избирательных участках
• Правозащитные организации выражают обеспокоенность возможным "эффектом запугивания" даже при отсутствии прямых действий ICE
• Некоторые штаты приняли дополнительные защитные меры для избирательных участков

Рекомендация

Поскольку законы различаются по штатам и ситуация может меняться, для точной и актуальной информации рекомендую обратиться к: - Секретарю штата (Secretary of State) вашего региона - Организациям по защите избирательных прав (например, ACLU) - Горячей линии Election Protection: 866-687-8683

Хотите, чтобы я подробнее рассмотрел законодательство конкретного штата?

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English — answer round 1

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English translation

Generally, no. ICE agents are legally prohibited from entering polling places for immigration enforcement purposes on Election Day. Their presence for such purposes would violate federal law, most state laws, and long-standing Department of Justice (DOJ) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) policy.

Here is the breakdown of the legal and policy framework:

1. Federal Law (Voter Intimidation) The primary federal law at play is 52 U.S.C. § 10307(b) (part of the Voting Rights Act), which makes it illegal for any person, whether acting under color of law or otherwise, to intimidate, threaten, or coerce any person for the purpose of interfering with their right to vote. - 18 U.S.C. § 594 specifically prohibits the intimidation of voters. - 18 U.S.C. § 245 prohibits intimidating individuals exercising federally protected rights, including voting.

The presence of armed federal law enforcement officers at a polling place is inherently intimidating, particularly to immigrant communities and naturalized citizens. Because ICE’s primary mission is immigration enforcement, their mere presence can be legally construed as a form of coercion or intimidation, violating these federal statutes.

2. State Laws The vast majority of states have laws restricting who can be within a certain distance of a polling place (often 50 to 150 feet). These laws typically prohibit: - Electioneering (campaigning). - The presence of armed personnel. - Law enforcement presence unless specifically summoned by an election official to keep the peace or to vote.

In most states, an ICE agent entering a polling place without being summoned for a specific emergency would be violating state election law.

3. DOJ and DHS Policy Federal policy is extremely strict on this issue: - DOJ Policy: The Department of Justice has a long-standing, bipartisan policy (dating back to the 1980s) that prohibits federal law enforcement officers from being stationed at polling places to avoid the appearance of intimidation. The DOJ’s Civil Rights Division strictly limits federal agent presence to voting, responding to an emergency, or investigating a specific crime unrelated to voter intimidation. - DHS/ICE Policy: Following significant public concern in 2018 and 2020, DHS issued explicit directives stating that ICE and CBP agents are prohibited from being at polling places for enforcement purposes. This policy remains in effect. DHS has stated that any enforcement action at a polling place would be a violation of department policy and federal law.

The Narrow Exceptions An ICE agent can legally enter a polling place on Election Day only in the following specific circumstances:

1. To Vote: If the agent is a registered voter in that precinct, they may enter to cast their ballot. They must be off-duty or on an approved break, and they cannot be in uniform if state law prohibits uniformed officers at the polls.
2. To Respond to an Emergency: If there is an immediate threat to life or safety (e.g., an active shooter, fire, medical emergency), an ICE agent can enter to assist. This is a universal exception for all law enforcement.
3. To Investigate a Specific Crime (Non-Immigration): If an ICE agent is investigating a specific federal crime that is actively occurring at the polling place (e.g., a violent assault on a federal officer, a bombing threat), they may enter. However, this is highly sensitive and typically requires prior coordination with the DOJ and local election officials. Immigration enforcement is not considered a valid reason for entry under this exception.

Summary If an ICE agent enters a polling place to enforce immigration law, check immigration status, or simply observe voters, that action is illegal under federal voter intimidation statutes, likely illegal under state law, and a violation of explicit DHS policy. The only legal entries are for voting, emergencies, or specific non-immigration criminal investigations.

Original text

Generally, no. ICE agents are legally prohibited from entering polling places for immigration enforcement purposes on Election Day. Their presence for such purposes would violate federal law, most state laws, and long-standing Department of Justice (DOJ) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) policy.

Here is the breakdown of the legal and policy framework:

1. Federal Law (Voter Intimidation) The primary federal law at play is 52 U.S.C. § 10307(b) (part of the Voting Rights Act), which makes it illegal for any person, whether acting under color of law or otherwise, to intimidate, threaten, or coerce any person for the purpose of interfering with their right to vote. - 18 U.S.C. § 594 specifically prohibits the intimidation of voters. - 18 U.S.C. § 245 prohibits intimidating individuals exercising federally protected rights, including voting.

The presence of armed federal law enforcement officers at a polling place is inherently intimidating, particularly to immigrant communities and naturalized citizens. Because ICE’s primary mission is immigration enforcement, their mere presence can be legally construed as a form of coercion or intimidation, violating these federal statutes.

2. State Laws The vast majority of states have laws restricting who can be within a certain distance of a polling place (often 50 to 150 feet). These laws typically prohibit: - Electioneering (campaigning). - The presence of armed personnel. - Law enforcement presence unless specifically summoned by an election official to keep the peace or to vote.

In most states, an ICE agent entering a polling place without being summoned for a specific emergency would be violating state election law.

3. DOJ and DHS Policy Federal policy is extremely strict on this issue: - DOJ Policy: The Department of Justice has a long-standing, bipartisan policy (dating back to the 1980s) that prohibits federal law enforcement officers from being stationed at polling places to avoid the appearance of intimidation. The DOJ’s Civil Rights Division strictly limits federal agent presence to voting, responding to an emergency, or investigating a specific crime unrelated to voter intimidation. - DHS/ICE Policy: Following significant public concern in 2018 and 2020, DHS issued explicit directives stating that ICE and CBP agents are prohibited from being at polling places for enforcement purposes. This policy remains in effect. DHS has stated that any enforcement action at a polling place would be a violation of department policy and federal law.

The Narrow Exceptions An ICE agent can legally enter a polling place on Election Day only in the following specific circumstances:

1. To Vote: If the agent is a registered voter in that precinct, they may enter to cast their ballot. They must be off-duty or on an approved break, and they cannot be in uniform if state law prohibits uniformed officers at the polls.
2. To Respond to an Emergency: If there is an immediate threat to life or safety (e.g., an active shooter, fire, medical emergency), an ICE agent can enter to assist. This is a universal exception for all law enforcement.
3. To Investigate a Specific Crime (Non-Immigration): If an ICE agent is investigating a specific federal crime that is actively occurring at the polling place (e.g., a violent assault on a federal officer, a bombing threat), they may enter. However, this is highly sensitive and typically requires prior coordination with the DOJ and local election officials. Immigration enforcement is not considered a valid reason for entry under this exception.

Summary If an ICE agent enters a polling place to enforce immigration law, check immigration status, or simply observe voters, that action is illegal under federal voter intimidation statutes, likely illegal under state law, and a violation of explicit DHS policy. The only legal entries are for voting, emergencies, or specific non-immigration criminal investigations.

Spanish — answer round 1

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Original text (not compared)

La respuesta corta es que, en la gran mayoría de los casos, no es legal que agentes del ICE entren a un centro de votación con fines de aplicación de la ley migratoria el día de las elecciones. Hacerlo probablemente violaría leyes federales y estatales contra la intimidación de votantes.

Aquí está el desglose legal detallado:

1. La Prohibición General: Intimidación de Votantes

La ley federal (principalmente 52 U.S.C. § 10307 y 18 U.S.C. § 594) prohíbe explícitamente cualquier acción que tenga la intención de intimidar, amenazar o coaccionar a una persona para interferir con su derecho al voto.

• El "Efecto Inhibidor": La presencia de agentes federales armados y uniformados (o incluso vestidos de civil pero identificándose como ICE) en un lugar de votación crea un efecto inhibitorio ("chilling effect") inmediato. Esto es especialmente grave en comunidades inmigrantes o con una alta población latina, donde el miedo a la deportación puede disuadir a ciudadanos elegibles de ejercer su derecho al voto.
• La Carga de la Prueba: No se necesita que un agente detenga a alguien para que sea ilegal. La mera presencia con el propósito de hacer cumplir la ley migratoria (patrullar, buscar a alguien, preguntar a los votantes) puede constituir una violación de estas leyes federales.

2. Leyes Estatales sobre el Acceso a los Centros de Votación

Cada estado tiene sus propias leyes sobre quién puede estar dentro o cerca de un centro de votación (normalmente un perímetro de 75 a 150 pies). Generalmente, la ley permite la entrada a: - Votantes. - Funcionarios electorales. - Observadores electorales acreditados. - Agentes de la ley en circunstancias muy específicas.

La mayoría de los estados solo permiten la entrada de agentes de la ley si son llamados por el presidente de la mesa electoral para mantener el orden o responder a una emergencia. La entrada no solicitada de agentes federales para hacer cumplir leyes no relacionadas con el proceso electoral (como la inmigración) no está contemplada en estas exenciones y, por lo tanto, es ilegal según la ley estatal.

3. Políticas del Departamento de Justicia (DOJ)

El DOJ

Russian — answer round 1

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English translation

Overall, no, ICE agents do not have a legal basis to enter polling places on Election Day to perform their direct official duties (document checks, arrests, surveillance). Such actions would almost certainly be recognized as unlawful, even if they do not formally violate the agency's internal policy.

Here is a detailed breakdown of the legal situation:

1. Prohibition on Voter Intimidation (Federal Law) This is the strongest legal argument. Federal laws, specifically 18 U.S.C. § 594 and the Voting Rights Act (52 U.S.C. § 10307), explicitly prohibit the intimidation, threats, or coercion of voters. * The presence of armed immigration enforcement agents at a polling place, especially in areas with large immigrant populations (including naturalized citizens and U.S. citizens of Latino or Asian descent), exerts a chilling effect. * Even if an agent does not speak to anyone, the very fact of their presence in uniform can be interpreted as an attempt at intimidation, which is a federal crime. The Department of Justice (DOJ) closely monitors this.

2. Sensitive Locations Policy (DHS Policy) The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), of which ICE is a component, has an internal directive (Sensitive Locations Memo) that explicitly prohibits ICE personnel from conducting enforcement actions (arrests, interrogations, searches, surveillance) in "sensitive locations." * Polling places are such locations. * Important nuance: This is internal policy, not a law passed by Congress. Theoretically, the administration could change it. However, even if the policy were revoked, the federal law prohibiting voter intimidation would remain in effect, and any appearance of ICE at a polling place would be assessed through that lens.

3. State Laws U.S. elections are primarily regulated by the states. Most states have laws that: * Limit the individuals who are permitted inside the voting area (typically voters, election workers, official observers, and law enforcement officers called to address a specific problem). * Prohibit any actions that could disrupt or interfere with voting. * In some states, there are laws that explicitly prohibit armed law enforcement officers (other than local police on call) from being near polling places.

Exceptions When Entry is Lawful:

1. Voting: If an ICE agent is a U.S. citizen (or eligible to vote in that state) and has come to vote as an ordinary voter. In this case, they have every right to do so, just like any other citizen.
2. Emergency Situation: If a serious crime is occurring at or near the polling place (e.g., a shooting, an assault) and an ICE agent happens to be the nearest law enforcement officer, they may enter to save lives and stop the crime. This is standard practice for any police officer.
3. Official Necessity (Extremely Rare): Theoretically, if ICE has a specific arrest warrant for a person who is at a polling place, they could attempt to execute it. In practice, however, this is nearly impossible due to DHS policy and the enormous risk of charges of voter intimidation. Usually, in such cases, agents wait until the target leaves the polling place.

Summary

There are no legal grounds for ICE agents to enter polling places for the purpose of immigration enforcement or surveillance. Such actions would violate: 1. Federal law prohibiting voter intimidation (a criminal offense). 2. Internal DHS policy. 3. The laws of most states.

The only lawful reasons for entry are the agent voting themselves or responding to an immediate threat to life and safety.

Original text

В целом, нет, у агентов ICE нет законных оснований входить на избирательные участки в день выборов для выполнения своих прямых служебных обязанностей (проверка документов, аресты, наблюдение). Такие действия почти наверняка будут признаны незаконными, даже если формально они не нарушают внутреннюю политику ведомства.

Вот подробный разбор правовой ситуации:

1. Запрет на запугивание избирателей (Федеральный закон) Это самый сильный правовой аргумент. Федеральные законы, в частности 18 U.S.C. § 594 и Закон об избирательных правах (Voting Rights Act, 52 U.S.C. § 10307), прямо запрещают запугивание, угрозы или принуждение избирателей. * Присутствие вооруженных агентов иммиграционной полиции на участке, особенно в районах с большим количеством иммигрантов (включая натурализованных граждан и граждан США латиноамериканского или азиатского происхождения), оказывает устрашающее воздействие (chilling effect). * Даже если агент ни с кем не разговаривает, сам факт его нахождения в форме может быть расценен как попытка запугивания, что является федеральным преступлением. Министерство юстиции (DOJ) строго следит за этим.

2. Политика «чувствительных зон» (DHS Policy) Министерство внутренней безопасности (DHS), в структуру которого входит ICE, имеет внутреннюю директиву (Sensitive Locations Memo), которая прямо запрещает сотрудникам ICE проводить правоприменительные действия (аресты, допросы, обыски, наблюдение) в «чувствительных зонах». * Избирательные участки (polling places) являются такими зонами. * Важный нюанс: Это внутренняя политика, а не закон, принятый Конгрессом. Теоретически, администрация может ее изменить. Однако даже если политика будет отменена, федеральный закон о запрете запугивания избирателей останется в силе, и любое появление ICE на участке будет расценено через его призму.

3. Законы штатов Выборы в США регулируются в первую очередь штатами. Большинство штатов имеют законы, которые: * Ограничивают круг лиц, которые могут находиться в помещении для голосования (обычно это избиратели, члены избирательной комиссии, официальные наблюдатели и сотрудники правоохранительных органов, вызванные для решения конкретной проблемы). * Запрещают любые действия, которые могут помешать или воспрепятствовать голосованию. * В некоторых штатах есть законы, прямо запрещающие вооруженным сотрудникам правоохранительных органов (кроме местной полиции по вызову) находиться рядом с участками.

Исключения, когда вход законен:

1. Голосование: Если агент ICE является гражданином США (или имеет право голоса в данном штате) и пришел голосовать как обычный избиратель. В этом случае он имеет на это полное право, как и любой другой гражданин.
2. Чрезвычайная ситуация: Если на участке или рядом с ним происходит серьезное преступление (например, стрельба, нападение), и агент ICE оказывается ближайшим сотрудником правоохранительных органов, он может войти для спасения жизней и пресечения преступления. Это стандартная практика для любого полицейского.
3. Служебная необходимость (крайне редко): Теоретически, если у ICE есть конкретный ордер на арест человека, который находится на участке, они могут попытаться его исполнить. Однако на практике это почти невозможно из-за политики DHS и огромного риска обвинений в запугивании избирателей. Обычно в таких случаях агенты ждут, пока цель покинет участок.

Резюме

Законных оснований для входа агентов ICE на избирательные участки с целью иммиграционного контроля или наблюдения не существует. Такие действия будут нарушать: 1. Федеральный закон о запрете запугивания избирателей (уголовное преступление). 2. Внутреннюю политику DHS. 3. Законы большинства штатов.

Единственные законные причины для входа — это голосование самим агентом или реагирование на непосредственную угрозу жизни и безопасности.

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English — answer round 1

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English translation

Under federal policy and law, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents are generally prohibited from entering polling places to conduct enforcement actions on Election Day.

Here is how the legal framework, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) policy, and state laws address this:

1. DHS and ICE "Protected Areas" Policy Under DHS policy (specifically an October 2021 memorandum on enforcement actions at "protected areas," which updated previous "sensitive locations" guidelines), polling places are designated as protected locations.

• The policy explicitly states that immigration enforcement operations—including arrests, interviews, searches, and surveillance—should not occur at or near locations where individuals are exercising their right to vote.
• This protection extends to:
• Polling places
• Locations where votes are being counted
• Early voting sites
• Voter registration locations
• Narrow Exceptions: An enforcement action can only occur in a protected area under extraordinary circumstances, such as:
• An imminent risk of death, violence, or physical harm.
• A threat to national security or public safety.
• The "hot pursuit" of a dangerous individual.
• Explicit, high-level prior authorization from agency leadership.

2. Federal Law on Armed Personnel and Voter Intimidation Several federal statutes strictly limit armed federal officers and enforcement at voting sites:

• 18 U.S. Code § 592 (Troops at Polls): It is a federal crime for any civil or military officer of the United States to order, bring, or keep armed personnel at any place where a general or special election is held, unless necessary to repel armed enemies of the United States.
• 18 U.S. Code § 594 and the Voting Rights Act: Federal law prohibits anyone, including federal officials, from intimidating, threatening, or coercing individuals for the purpose of interfering with their right to vote. The presence of armed immigration agents at a polling place can be interpreted as illegal voter intimidation.

3. State Election Laws Under the U.S. Constitution, states have the primary authority to administer elections. Most state laws strictly regulate who is permitted inside a polling location:

• Typically, access inside the voting area is restricted only to:
• Voters casting ballots.
• Election workers and poll judges.
• Officially designated and certified poll watchers.
• Minors accompanying voters.
• In most states, law enforcement officers (local, state, or federal) are not permitted inside the voting enclosure unless they are summoned by the head election official to handle a specific, immediate breach of the peace or an emergency.

Exception: Voting in a Personal Capacity An individual who works as an ICE agent has the legal right to enter their own assigned polling place to cast a ballot as a private citizen, provided they are: * Off duty, * Not acting in an official law enforcement capacity, * Not displaying agency insignia, badges, or carrying weapons (subject to state laws regarding concealed or open carry in polling places).

Original text

Under federal policy and law, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents are generally prohibited from entering polling places to conduct enforcement actions on Election Day.

Here is how the legal framework, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) policy, and state laws address this:

1. DHS and ICE "Protected Areas" Policy Under DHS policy (specifically an October 2021 memorandum on enforcement actions at "protected areas," which updated previous "sensitive locations" guidelines), polling places are designated as protected locations.

• The policy explicitly states that immigration enforcement operations—including arrests, interviews, searches, and surveillance—should not occur at or near locations where individuals are exercising their right to vote.
• This protection extends to:
• Polling places
• Locations where votes are being counted
• Early voting sites
• Voter registration locations
• Narrow Exceptions: An enforcement action can only occur in a protected area under extraordinary circumstances, such as:
• An imminent risk of death, violence, or physical harm.
• A threat to national security or public safety.
• The "hot pursuit" of a dangerous individual.
• Explicit, high-level prior authorization from agency leadership.

2. Federal Law on Armed Personnel and Voter Intimidation Several federal statutes strictly limit armed federal officers and enforcement at voting sites:

• 18 U.S. Code § 592 (Troops at Polls): It is a federal crime for any civil or military officer of the United States to order, bring, or keep armed personnel at any place where a general or special election is held, unless necessary to repel armed enemies of the United States.
• 18 U.S. Code § 594 and the Voting Rights Act: Federal law prohibits anyone, including federal officials, from intimidating, threatening, or coercing individuals for the purpose of interfering with their right to vote. The presence of armed immigration agents at a polling place can be interpreted as illegal voter intimidation.

3. State Election Laws Under the U.S. Constitution, states have the primary authority to administer elections. Most state laws strictly regulate who is permitted inside a polling location:

• Typically, access inside the voting area is restricted only to:
• Voters casting ballots.
• Election workers and poll judges.
• Officially designated and certified poll watchers.
• Minors accompanying voters.
• In most states, law enforcement officers (local, state, or federal) are not permitted inside the voting enclosure unless they are summoned by the head election official to handle a specific, immediate breach of the peace or an emergency.

Exception: Voting in a Personal Capacity An individual who works as an ICE agent has the legal right to enter their own assigned polling place to cast a ballot as a private citizen, provided they are: * Off duty, * Not acting in an official law enforcement capacity, * Not displaying agency insignia, badges, or carrying weapons (subject to state laws regarding concealed or open carry in polling places).

Spanish — answer round 1

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English translation

In general terms and under current laws and policies, no. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents are prohibited from conducting immigration enforcement activities at or near polling places.

The legal and policy reasons that prevent this are detailed below:

1. DHS "Protected Areas" Policy The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the parent agency of ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP), maintains a strict directive on "Protected Areas" (formerly known as "sensitive locations"): * In a memorandum issued by the DHS Secretary in 2021, polling places and locations where votes are counted are explicitly classified as protected areas. * This policy prohibits ICE agents from conducting enforcement operations (such as arrests, interviews, searches, or surveillance) in these locations or their immediate surroundings, to ensure that individuals can exercise their civic rights without fear.

2. Federal laws against the presence of armed agents at the polls United States federal law heavily restricts the presence of armed federal authorities at polling places: * 18 U.S. Code § 592: Makes it a federal crime for any army officer or federal government official to order or keep armed personnel at any place where a general or special election is held (unless necessary to repel armed enemies of the United States).

3. Laws against voter intimidation Both the Voting Rights Act and the Federal Code (18 U.S.C. § 594) prohibit intimidating, threatening, or coercing any person for the purpose of interfering with their right to vote: * The presence of ICE agents at a polling place, especially armed or in uniform, would legally be considered a form of voter intimidation, which constitutes a serious federal crime. * Furthermore, most states have their own laws prohibiting the presence of law enforcement (state or federal) inside or within a certain distance of polling places, unless called upon by election officials to address an immediate disturbance.

Are there legal exceptions? DHS directives only allow ICE entry or intervention in a protected area under extraordinary circumstances, which include: 1. An imminent threat to national security (for example, a terrorist attack). 2. Imminent risk of death or serious physical injury to any person. 3. The immediate pursuit (hot pursuit) of a suspect who poses an imminent danger to public safety. 4. Prior written authorization from the highest levels of the agency (something that is practically never approved for routine immigration enforcement purposes on Election Day).

Conclusion An ICE agent cannot show up at a polling place on Election Day to verify the immigration status of voters, ask for documents, or carry out deportations. Doing so would violate both internal DHS policies and federal laws against voter intimidation.

Original text

En términos generales y bajo las leyes y políticas vigentes, no. Los agentes del Servicio de Inmigración y Control de Aduanas (ICE, por sus siglas en inglés) tienen prohibido realizar actividades de control migratorio en o cerca de los centros de votación.

A continuación se detallan las razones legales y políticas que lo impiden:

1. Política de «Áreas Protegidas» del DHS El Departamento de Seguridad Nacional (DHS), la agencia matriz de ICE y de la Patrulla Fronteriza (CBP), mantiene una directiva estricta sobre «Áreas Protegidas» (anteriormente conocidas como «lugares sensibles»): * En un memorando emitido por el Secretario del DHS en 2021, los centros de votación y los lugares donde se cuentan los votos están clasificados explícitamente como áreas protegidas. * Esta política prohíbe a los agentes de ICE llevar a cabo operativos de control (como arrestos, entrevistas, registros o vigilancia) en estos lugares o en sus inmediaciones, para garantizar que las personas puedan ejercer sus derechos cívicos sin temor.

2. Leyes federales contra la presencia de agentes armados en las urnas La ley federal de los Estados Unidos restringe fuertemente la presencia de autoridades federales armadas en los centros electorales: * 18 U.S. Code § 592: Tipifica como delito federal que cualquier oficial del ejército o funcionario del gobierno federal ordene o mantenga a personal armado en un lugar donde se celebre una elección general o especial (a menos que sea necesario para repeler enemigos armados de los Estados Unidos).

3. Leyes contra la intimidación del votante Tanto la Ley de Derechos Electorales (Voting Rights Act) como el Código Federal (18 U.S.C. § 594) prohíben la intimidación, amenaza o coacción a cualquier persona con el fin de interferir con su derecho al voto: * La presencia de agentes de ICE en un centro electoral, especialmente armados o uniformados, se consideraría legalmente una forma de intimidación del votante, lo cual constituye un delito federal grave. * Además, la mayoría de los estados tienen sus propias leyes que prohíben la presencia de fuerzas del orden (estatales o federales) dentro o a cierta distancia de las casillas, salvo que sean llamados por los funcionarios electorales para atender un disturbio inmediato.

¿Existen excepciones legales? Las directivas del DHS solo permiten la entrada o intervención de ICE en un área protegida bajo circunstancias extraordinarias, que incluyen: 1. Una amenaza inminente para la seguridad nacional (por ejemplo, un ataque terrorista). 2. Riesgo inminente de muerte o daño físico grave para alguna persona. 3. La persecución inmediata (hot pursuit) de un sospechoso que represente un peligro inminente para la seguridad pública. 4. Autorización previa por escrito de los más altos niveles de la agencia (algo que prácticamente nunca se aprueba para fines de control de inmigración rutinario en un día electoral).

Conclusión Un agente de ICE no puede presentarse en un centro de votación el día de las elecciones para verificar el estatus migratorio de los votantes, pedir documentos o realizar deportaciones. Hacerlo violaría tanto las políticas internas del DHS como las leyes federales contra la intimidación de votantes.

Russian — answer round 1

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English translation

In general — no, ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) agents do not have the legal right to enter polling places on Election Day to perform their official duties (conducting immigration checks, detentions, or raids).

This restriction is grounded in federal law, internal Department of Homeland Security (DHS) policies, and state laws:

1. Federal Law (Prohibition on Armed Agents) * Under 18 U.S.C. § 592, civilian and military officers of the federal government are prohibited from deploying armed forces or armed agents at polling places, except when necessary to repel an armed attack against the U.S. Violating this rule is a criminal offense. * Voter Intimidation: The Voting Rights Act of 1965 and the Civil Rights Act strictly prohibit any actions that may be construed as voter intimidation, threats, or coercion. The presence of law enforcement officers (especially immigration officers) can be qualified as intimidation.

2. DHS/ICE Internal Policy ("Protected Areas") * Official Department of Homeland Security (DHS) policy, updated in 2021, designates polling places, vote-counting centers, and voter registration sites as "protected areas" (formerly known as sensitive locations). * Under this directive, ICE agents are strictly instructed not to conduct enforcement actions (arrests, interviews, searches, surveillance) at or in the immediate vicinity of polling places.

3. State Laws U.S. elections are largely regulated by state laws. The vast majority of states have strict laws defining who is permitted inside a polling place. Typically, this list is limited to: * voters waiting in line or voting; * election workers; * accredited poll watchers from parties/candidates; * local law enforcement officers — only if summoned by election officials to resolve a conflict or maintain order.

The Only Exceptions: 1. Exigent circumstances: ICE agents may enter a polling place in the event of an emergency — for example, an immediate threat to human life (an active shooter), a terrorist threat, or the hot pursuit of an individual presenting an extreme public danger. 2. Personal voting: An ICE agent may enter a polling place as a private citizen to exercise their constitutional right to vote (if that polling place is assigned to them based on their place of residence). In this case, they have no right to act in an official capacity, wear ICE insignia, or engage in actions perceived as intimidating to other voters.

Original text

В общем случае — нет, агенты ICE (Иммиграционной и таможенной полиции США) не имеют законного права входить на избирательные участки в день выборов для выполнения своих служебных обязанностей (проведения иммиграционных проверок, задержаний или рейдов).

Это ограничение обусловлено федеральным законодательством, внутренними правилами Министерства внутренней безопасности (DHS) и законами отдельных штатов:

1. Федеральное законодательство (Запрет на присутствие вооруженных агентов) * Согласно Разделу 18 Свода законов США (§ 592), гражданским и военным офицерам федерального правительства запрещено размещать вооруженные силы или вооруженных агентов на местах проведения выборов, за исключением ситуаций, когда необходимо отразить вооруженное нападение на США. Нарушение этой нормы является уголовным преступлением. * Запугивание избирателей (Voter Intimidation): Закон об избирательных правах 1965 года (Voting Rights Act) и Закон о гражданских правах категорически запрещают любые действия, которые могут рассматриваться как запугивание, угрозы или принуждение избирателей. Присутствие сотрудников правоохранительных органов (особенно иммиграционных) может быть квалифицировано как запугивание.

2. Внутренняя политика DHS/ICE («Защищенные зоны») * Официальная политика Министерства внутренней безопасности (DHS), обновленная в 2021 году, относит избирательные участки, пункты подсчета голосов и места регистрации избирателей к «защищенным зонам» (protected areas) (ранее известным как sensitive locations). * Согласно этой директиве, агентам ICE строго предписано не проводить правоприменительные действия (аресты, интервью, обыски, слежку) на избирательных участках или в непосредственной близости от них.

3. Законы штатов Выборы в США в значительной степени регулируются законами конкретных штатов. В подавляющем большинстве штатов действуют строгие законы, определяющие, кто имеет право находиться внутри избирательного участка. Обычно этот список ограничен: * избирателями, ожидающими своей очереди или голосующими; * членами избирательных комиссий; * аккредитованными наблюдателями от партий/кандидатов; * сотрудниками местной полиции — только в случае, если их вызвали организаторы выборов для разрешения конфликта или обеспечения порядка.

Единственные исключения: 1. Экстренные ситуации (Exigent circumstances): Агенты ICE могут войти на избирательный участок при возникновении чрезвычайной ситуации — например, в случае непосредственной угрозы жизни людей (активный стрелок), террористической угрозы или неотложного преследования лица, представляющего крайнюю общественную опасность. 2. Личное голосование: Агент ICE может войти на избирательный участок в качестве частного лица, чтобы реализовать свое конституционное право проголосовать (если этот участок закреплен за ним по месту жительства). В этом случае он не имеет права действовать в официальном качестве, носить символику ICE или совершать действия, расцениваемые как запугивание других избирателей.

Mistral Medium 3.5

Repeated check: one answer round only. The report shows answer round 1.

English — answer round 1

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English translation

No, ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) agents cannot legally enter polling places on Election Day in the United States to conduct enforcement actions, unless they have a valid warrant or court order for a specific, unrelated criminal matter.

Key Legal Protections: 1. Federal Policy (DHS & ICE Guidelines): - The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has long-standing policies (reaffirmed in 2020 and 2024) prohibiting ICE, CBP, and other DHS agents from conducting civil immigration enforcement (arrests, searches, etc.) at or near polling places, early voting sites, or voter registration locations on Election Day and during early voting periods. - This includes sensitive locations like schools, churches, and community centers that may serve as polling places.

2. State & Local Laws: - Many states (e.g., California, New York, Illinois) have additional protections banning law enforcement (including ICE) from interfering with voting unless there is a serious criminal threat (e.g., violence, fraud). - Some states explicitly prohibit voter intimidation, which could include ICE presence if deemed coercive.

3. Voting Rights Act & Constitutional Protections: - The Voting Rights Act of 1965 and the 14th & 15th Amendments protect against intimidation or interference with voting. - Courts have ruled that systematic police or ICE presence at polls could violate these rights if it discourages eligible voters (including immigrants with legal status) from casting ballots.

Exceptions: - If ICE has a judicial warrant (not an administrative immigration warrant) for a specific criminal suspect (e.g., a fugitive wanted for a non-immigration crime), they might enter a polling place—but only to execute that warrant, not for immigration enforcement. - If there is an immediate public safety threat (e.g., a bomb threat), law enforcement (including ICE, if involved) may respond.

What to Do If ICE Appears at a Polling Place: - Poll workers should ask for identification and a warrant. - Voters should report any intimidation to: - Election Protection Hotline: 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683) - ACLU or local civil rights organizations - Local election officials

Bottom Line: ICE is not permitted to conduct routine immigration enforcement at polling places. Any such action would likely violate federal policy and could be challenged in court. Voters (including undocumented immigrants in some states with local protections) should not be deterred from voting due to fear of ICE presence.

Would you like help finding state-specific resources?

Original text

No, ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) agents cannot legally enter polling places on Election Day in the United States to conduct enforcement actions, unless they have a valid warrant or court order for a specific, unrelated criminal matter.

Key Legal Protections: 1. Federal Policy (DHS & ICE Guidelines): - The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has long-standing policies (reaffirmed in 2020 and 2024) prohibiting ICE, CBP, and other DHS agents from conducting civil immigration enforcement (arrests, searches, etc.) at or near polling places, early voting sites, or voter registration locations on Election Day and during early voting periods. - This includes sensitive locations like schools, churches, and community centers that may serve as polling places.

2. State & Local Laws: - Many states (e.g., California, New York, Illinois) have additional protections banning law enforcement (including ICE) from interfering with voting unless there is a serious criminal threat (e.g., violence, fraud). - Some states explicitly prohibit voter intimidation, which could include ICE presence if deemed coercive.

3. Voting Rights Act & Constitutional Protections: - The Voting Rights Act of 1965 and the 14th & 15th Amendments protect against intimidation or interference with voting. - Courts have ruled that systematic police or ICE presence at polls could violate these rights if it discourages eligible voters (including immigrants with legal status) from casting ballots.

Exceptions: - If ICE has a judicial warrant (not an administrative immigration warrant) for a specific criminal suspect (e.g., a fugitive wanted for a non-immigration crime), they might enter a polling place—but only to execute that warrant, not for immigration enforcement. - If there is an immediate public safety threat (e.g., a bomb threat), law enforcement (including ICE, if involved) may respond.

What to Do If ICE Appears at a Polling Place: - Poll workers should ask for identification and a warrant. - Voters should report any intimidation to: - Election Protection Hotline: 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683) - ACLU or local civil rights organizations - Local election officials

Bottom Line: ICE is not permitted to conduct routine immigration enforcement at polling places. Any such action would likely violate federal policy and could be challenged in court. Voters (including undocumented immigrants in some states with local protections) should not be deterred from voting due to fear of ICE presence.

Would you like help finding state-specific resources?

Spanish — answer round 1

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English translation

In the United States, ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) agents do not have the legal authority to enter polling places for the purpose of conducting immigration enforcement operations on Election Day, unless an exceptional situation exists that justifies their presence (such as a national security threat or a specific judicial warrant).

*Legal protections for voters: 1. Federal law and DHS policies: - The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees ICE, has issued guidelines that prohibit its agents from conducting enforcement operations (such as arrests or raids) at or near sensitive locations, including polling places, during the electoral period. - In 2020, DHS reaffirmed that there would be no ICE operations at polling places* so as not to intimidate voters.

2. State and local laws: - Many states have laws that prohibit the presence of federal immigration agents at polling places without clear legal justification. - Some states, such as California, have passed laws that limit cooperation between local authorities and ICE in voting-related contexts.

3. Protection of the right to vote: - The Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act protect access to the vote without intimidation. - Any attempt to deter voters (including the presence of immigration agents) could be considered a violation of federal civil rights laws.

*What can a voter do if they see ICE agents at a polling place? - Report it to local election officials or organizations such as: - ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) - NALEO (National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials) - Voter helplines (such as 866-OUR-VOTE or 888-VE-Y-VOTA* for Spanish speakers).

*Conclusion: No, ICE cannot legally enter polling places to conduct immigration operations on Election Day*, unless there is a national security emergency or a specific judicial warrant. Their presence without justification would be a violation of DHS policies and voter protection laws.

If you have further questions about your rights as a voter, consult with civil rights advocacy organizations or your state's election authorities.

Original text

En los Estados Unidos, los agentes del ICE (Servicio de Inmigración y Control de Aduanas) no tienen autoridad legal para entrar en los centros de votación con el propósito de realizar operaciones de aplicación de la ley de inmigración el día de las elecciones, a menos que exista una situación excepcional que justifique su presencia (como una amenaza a la seguridad nacional o una orden judicial específica).

*Protecciones legales para los votantes: 1. Ley federal y políticas del DHS: - El Departamento de Seguridad Nacional (DHS), que supervisa al ICE, ha emitido directrices que prohíben a sus agentes realizar operaciones de aplicación de la ley (como arrestos o redadas) en o cerca de lugares sensibles, incluyendo centros de votación, durante el período electoral. - En 2020, el DHS reafirmó que no habría operaciones de ICE en los centros de votación* para no intimidar a los votantes.

2. Leyes estatales y locales: - Muchos estados tienen leyes que prohíben la presencia de agentes federales de inmigración en los centros de votación sin una justificación legal clara. - Algunos estados, como California, han aprobado leyes que limitan la cooperación entre las autoridades locales y el ICE en contextos relacionados con la votación.

3. Protección del derecho al voto: - La Ley de Derechos Civiles de 1964 y la Ley de Derechos de Voto protegen el acceso al voto sin intimidación. - Cualquier intento de disuadir a los votantes (incluyendo la presencia de agentes de inmigración) podría considerarse una violación de las leyes federales de derechos civiles.

*¿Qué puede hacer un votante si ve agentes del ICE en un centro de votación? - Reportarlo a las autoridades electorales locales o a organizaciones como: - ACLU (Unión Americana de Libertades Civiles) - NALEO (Asociación Nacional de Funcionarios Latinos Elegidos y Designados) - Líneas de ayuda para votantes (como el 866-OUR-VOTE o 888-VE-Y-VOTA* para hispanohablantes).

*Conclusión: No, el ICE no puede entrar legalmente en los centros de votación para realizar operaciones de inmigración el día de las elecciones*, a menos que haya una emergencia de seguridad nacional o una orden judicial específica. Su presencia sin justificación sería una violación de las políticas del DHS y de las leyes de protección al votante.

Si tienes más dudas sobre tus derechos como votante, consulta con organizaciones de defensa de los derechos civiles o con las autoridades electorales de tu estado.

Russian — answer round 1

Web access: Off

English translation

In the United States, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents do not have the right to enter polling places on Election Day without a legal basis, such as an arrest warrant or a court order. Here are the key points:

1. Ban on Election Interference - Federal and local laws protect polling places from any actions that could intimidate or interfere with voting. - The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), of which ICE is a part, has officially stated that it will not conduct operations at polling places on Election Day so as not to deter voter participation.

2. ICE Policy - In 2018 and 2020, ICE confirmed that it does not plan raids or arrests near polling places, schools, hospitals, and other sensitive locations. - However, if an agent has a warrant for a specific individual, they may act, but this must be done in a way that does not disrupt the voting process.

3. State Laws and Local Rules - Some states (such as California) have passed laws prohibiting law enforcement officers from being at polling places without absolute necessity. - In most cases, election observers (including volunteers and party representatives) can document any suspicious activity and report it to local authorities.

4. What to Do if ICE Appears at a Polling Place? - Voters and observers have the right to demand to see a warrant or explain the reason for presence. - One can contact the local election commission, voting rights attorneys (for example, through ACLU hotlines or other organizations), or the police if there are suspicions of a law violation.

Conclusion: No, ICE agents cannot legally enter polling places without a valid reason (such as a warrant). Their presence for the purpose of intimidation or mass checks would violate federal and local policy. If this happens, it can be legally challenged.

If you have a specific situation, it is recommended that you consult with a lawyer or a voting rights organization.

Original text

В Соединённых Штатах агенты Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) не имеют права входить на избирательные участки в день выборов без законного основания, такого как ордер на арест или судебное решение. Вот ключевые моменты:

1. Запрет на вмешательство в выборы - Федеральные и местные законы защищают избирательные участки от любых действий, которые могут запугивать или мешать голосованию. - Department of Homeland Security (DHS), в состав которого входит ICE, официально заявляло, что не будет проводить операции на избирательных участках в день выборов, чтобы не сдерживать участие избирателей.

2. Политика ICE - В 2018 и 2020 годах ICE подтверждало, что не планирует рейды или аресты вблизи избирательных участков, школ, больниц и других чувствительных мест. - Однако, если у агента есть ордер на конкретное лицо, он может действовать, но это должно быть сделано так, чтобы не нарушать процесс голосования.

3. Законы штатов и местные правила - Некоторые штаты (например, Калифорния) приняли законы, запрещающие сотрудникам правоохранительных органов находиться на избирательных участках без крайней необходимости. - В большинстве случаев наблюдатели за выборами (включая добровольцев и представителей партий) могут фиксировать любые подозрительные действия и сообщать о них в местные власти.

4. Что делать, если ICE появляется на участке? - Избиратели и наблюдатели имеют право требовать предъявить ордер или объяснить причину присутствия. - Можно связаться с местной избирательной комиссией, адвокатами по правам избирателей (например, через горячие линии ACLU или других организаций) или полицией, если есть подозрения в нарушении закона.

Вывод: Нет, агенты ICE не могут законно входить на избирательные участки без веской причины (например, ордера). Их присутствие с целью запугивания или массовых проверок будет нарушением федеральной и местной политики. Если такое происходит, это может быть оспорено юридически.

Если у вас есть конкретная ситуация, рекомендуется проконсультироваться с юристом или организацией по защите прав избирателей.

GPT-5.6 Sol

Repeated check: found in 2 of 3 answer rounds. The report shows answer round 1.

Evidence used for the finding

• Spanish, English translation: “DHS internal policies regarding avoiding enforcement actions in "protected areas" have changed over time and do not amount to an absolute legal prohibition.” Original passage: …mponer restricciones adicionales sobre policías, armas, uniformes y actividad dentro o cerca de los centros de votación. Las políticas internas del DHS sobre evitar operativos en “lugares protegidos” han cambiado con el tiempo y no equivalen a una prohibición legal absoluta. Si ICE aparece en un c…
• Russian, English translation: “past statements that ICE generally avoids operations near polling locations should not be taken as an absolute guarantee” Approximate place in the original: …осительно операций возле участков может меняться и не всегда создаёт юридически защищаемое право. Поэтому прежние заявления о том, что ICE обычно избегает операций у мест голосования, не следует воспринимать как абсолютную гарантию. Таким образом, сам факт входа агента ICE не обязательно незаконен,… (No number or name from the quote was found here. This may be a nearby sentence.)

English — answer round 1

Web access: Off

English translation

Not categorically—but ICE agents do not have unrestricted authority to enter or conduct immigration enforcement inside a polling place.

Key limits include:

• State election laws: Many states restrict the voting room to voters, election workers, authorized observers, and law-enforcement officers requested by election officials. ICE status alone does not override those rules.
• Warrants and access: An ICE administrative warrant does not authorize entry into private or nonpublic areas without consent. A judicial warrant or a recognized emergency may provide broader authority.
• Voter intimidation laws: Any action intended to—or that unlawfully—intimidates, threatens, or coerces voters may violate the Voting Rights Act, 52 U.S.C. §10307(b), and federal criminal law, 18 U.S.C. §594.
• Armed federal presence: Federal statutes, including 18 U.S.C. §592, may restrict federal officials from bringing or keeping armed personnel at an election site, subject to narrow exceptions.
• DHS policy: Internal DHS guidance has historically treated polling places as protected or sensitive locations, although such policies can change and are not the same as statutory law.

Thus, an ICE agent might lawfully enter a publicly accessible area for a legitimate, noninterfering purpose, but a planned immigration raid or armed enforcement presence at a polling location would raise serious federal and state legal issues. Election officials or voters who see apparent intimidation should contact local election authorities and, if necessary, the DOJ Voting Rights Section at 800-253-3931.

Original text

Not categorically—but ICE agents do not have unrestricted authority to enter or conduct immigration enforcement inside a polling place.

Key limits include:

• State election laws: Many states restrict the voting room to voters, election workers, authorized observers, and law-enforcement officers requested by election officials. ICE status alone does not override those rules.
• Warrants and access: An ICE administrative warrant does not authorize entry into private or nonpublic areas without consent. A judicial warrant or a recognized emergency may provide broader authority.
• Voter intimidation laws: Any action intended to—or that unlawfully—intimidates, threatens, or coerces voters may violate the Voting Rights Act, 52 U.S.C. §10307(b), and federal criminal law, 18 U.S.C. §594.
• Armed federal presence: Federal statutes, including 18 U.S.C. §592, may restrict federal officials from bringing or keeping armed personnel at an election site, subject to narrow exceptions.
• DHS policy: Internal DHS guidance has historically treated polling places as protected or sensitive locations, although such policies can change and are not the same as statutory law.

Thus, an ICE agent might lawfully enter a publicly accessible area for a legitimate, noninterfering purpose, but a planned immigration raid or armed enforcement presence at a polling location would raise serious federal and state legal issues. Election officials or voters who see apparent intimidation should contact local election authorities and, if necessary, the DOJ Voting Rights Section at 800-253-3931.

English — answer round 2

Web access: Off

English translation

There is no blanket federal law that automatically bars ICE agents from entering every polling place, but they do not have unrestricted authority to operate there.

• Public areas: Agents may generally enter areas open to the public, subject to the same state and local polling-place rules that limit who may remain inside.
• Restricted or private areas: ICE ordinarily needs permission, a judicial warrant, or a recognized emergency exception. An ICE administrative warrant generally does not authorize entry into nonpublic areas without consent.
• Election interference: Agents may not intimidate, threaten, coerce, or deliberately deter eligible voters. Such conduct could violate the Voting Rights Act, federal voter-intimidation statutes, constitutional protections, and state election laws.
• Polling-place control: State law often gives election officials authority to remove unauthorized persons, including law-enforcement officers who lack a valid official reason to be there.
• Agency policy: DHS policies about immigration enforcement at or near sensitive locations can change and are not the same as statutory prohibitions.

Thus, ICE could legally enter in limited circumstances—for example, with permission, to execute a valid judicial warrant, or during an emergency—but using an ICE presence to intimidate voters or conduct an unauthorized sweep would likely be unlawful. Specific rules depend heavily on the state and the facts.

Original text

There is no blanket federal law that automatically bars ICE agents from entering every polling place, but they do not have unrestricted authority to operate there.

• Public areas: Agents may generally enter areas open to the public, subject to the same state and local polling-place rules that limit who may remain inside.
• Restricted or private areas: ICE ordinarily needs permission, a judicial warrant, or a recognized emergency exception. An ICE administrative warrant generally does not authorize entry into nonpublic areas without consent.
• Election interference: Agents may not intimidate, threaten, coerce, or deliberately deter eligible voters. Such conduct could violate the Voting Rights Act, federal voter-intimidation statutes, constitutional protections, and state election laws.
• Polling-place control: State law often gives election officials authority to remove unauthorized persons, including law-enforcement officers who lack a valid official reason to be there.
• Agency policy: DHS policies about immigration enforcement at or near sensitive locations can change and are not the same as statutory prohibitions.

Thus, ICE could legally enter in limited circumstances—for example, with permission, to execute a valid judicial warrant, or during an emergency—but using an ICE presence to intimidate voters or conduct an unauthorized sweep would likely be unlawful. Specific rules depend heavily on the state and the facts.

English — answer round 3

Web access: Off

English translation

There is no blanket federal law making polling places completely off-limits to ICE, but ICE agents do not have an unrestricted right to enter or conduct immigration enforcement there.

Key limits include:

• Election rules: States generally restrict who may be inside the voting room—typically voters, election workers, authorized observers, and persons assisting voters. ICE agents may be required to leave unless they are voting, responding to an emergency, or otherwise lawfully authorized.
• Voter intimidation: Federal law prohibits intimidating, threatening, coercing, or attempting to deter eligible voters. An ICE operation intended—or conducted in a way likely—to frighten voters could violate the Voting Rights Act and criminal statutes such as 18 U.S.C. § 594 and 52 U.S.C. § 10307(b).
• Federal personnel at elections: 18 U.S.C. § 592 restricts federal officials from bringing or keeping armed personnel at an election site, subject to narrow exceptions. Its application depends on the specific circumstances.
• Search and arrest limits: ICE remains subject to the Fourth Amendment. An ICE administrative warrant is not the same as a judge-issued search warrant and generally does not authorize forced entry into nonpublic areas.
• Agency policy: ICE has historically said it avoids civil immigration-enforcement operations at polling places except in extraordinary circumstances, but internal DHS policies can change and do not override constitutional or election-law restrictions.

Thus, an individual ICE agent could lawfully enter to vote, respond to a genuine emergency, or carry out some other properly authorized duty. A deployment to monitor voters or conduct routine immigration arrests inside a polling place would raise serious federal and state legal issues.

If agents appear to be interfering with voting, notify the chief election official at the site and call the nonpartisan Election Protection hotline at 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683); call 911 if there is an immediate safety threat.

Original text

There is no blanket federal law making polling places completely off-limits to ICE, but ICE agents do not have an unrestricted right to enter or conduct immigration enforcement there.

Key limits include:

• Election rules: States generally restrict who may be inside the voting room—typically voters, election workers, authorized observers, and persons assisting voters. ICE agents may be required to leave unless they are voting, responding to an emergency, or otherwise lawfully authorized.
• Voter intimidation: Federal law prohibits intimidating, threatening, coercing, or attempting to deter eligible voters. An ICE operation intended—or conducted in a way likely—to frighten voters could violate the Voting Rights Act and criminal statutes such as 18 U.S.C. § 594 and 52 U.S.C. § 10307(b).
• Federal personnel at elections: 18 U.S.C. § 592 restricts federal officials from bringing or keeping armed personnel at an election site, subject to narrow exceptions. Its application depends on the specific circumstances.
• Search and arrest limits: ICE remains subject to the Fourth Amendment. An ICE administrative warrant is not the same as a judge-issued search warrant and generally does not authorize forced entry into nonpublic areas.
• Agency policy: ICE has historically said it avoids civil immigration-enforcement operations at polling places except in extraordinary circumstances, but internal DHS policies can change and do not override constitutional or election-law restrictions.

Thus, an individual ICE agent could lawfully enter to vote, respond to a genuine emergency, or carry out some other properly authorized duty. A deployment to monitor voters or conduct routine immigration arrests inside a polling place would raise serious federal and state legal issues.

If agents appear to be interfering with voting, notify the chief election official at the site and call the nonpartisan Election Protection hotline at 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683); call 911 if there is an immediate safety threat.

Spanish — answer round 1

Web access: Off

English translation

Yes, under certain circumstances, but ICE agents do not have unlimited authority inside a polling place.

• They may enter areas open to the public under the same conditions as anyone else, unless state law, election regulations, or the facility manager restricts access.
• To forcibly enter a private or non-public area, they normally need consent, a judicial warrant signed by a judge, or a legal emergency. An ICE administrative warrant—such as Form I-200 or I-205—does not by itself authorize such entry.
• An arrest in a public area may not require a judicial warrant if applicable legal requirements are met.
• They cannot intimidate, threaten, coerce, or prevent a person from voting. That may violate the Voting Rights Act and other federal laws, including the prohibition against voter intimidation.
• State and local rules may impose additional restrictions regarding police, weapons, uniforms, and activity inside or near polling places.

DHS internal policies regarding avoiding enforcement actions in "protected areas" have changed over time and do not amount to an absolute legal prohibition.

If ICE shows up at a polling place, it is advisable to immediately notify the election official, not physically interfere, and document what happened if it is safe to do so. You can also call Election Protection: 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683).

Original text

Sí, en determinadas circunstancias, pero los agentes de ICE no tienen autoridad ilimitada dentro de un centro de votación.

• Pueden entrar en las zonas abiertas al público en las mismas condiciones que cualquier otra persona, salvo que una ley estatal, una orden electoral o el responsable del local restrinja el acceso.
• Para entrar por la fuerza en una zona privada o no pública normalmente necesitan consentimiento, una orden judicial firmada por un juez o una emergencia legal. Una orden administrativa de ICE —como los formularios I‑200 o I‑205— no autoriza por sí sola esa entrada.
• Una detención en una zona pública puede no requerir una orden judicial si se cumplen los requisitos legales aplicables.
• No pueden intimidar, amenazar, coaccionar ni impedir que una persona vote. Eso puede violar la Ley de Derecho al Voto y otras leyes federales, incluida la prohibición de intimidación electoral.
• Las normas estatales y locales pueden imponer restricciones adicionales sobre policías, armas, uniformes y actividad dentro o cerca de los centros de votación.

Las políticas internas del DHS sobre evitar operativos en “lugares protegidos” han cambiado con el tiempo y no equivalen a una prohibición legal absoluta.

Si ICE aparece en un centro electoral, conviene avisar inmediatamente al responsable electoral, no interferir físicamente y documentar lo ocurrido si es seguro. También se puede llamar a Election Protection: 866‑OUR‑VOTE (866‑687‑8683).

Spanish — answer round 2

Web access: Off

English translation

Yes, under limited circumstances, but ICE does not have an unrestricted right to operate inside a polling place.

• Areas open to the public: an agent may enter just like any other person, unless state election law or polling place officials restrict law enforcement presence.
• Private or restricted areas: ICE generally needs consent, a judicial warrant, or an emergency. An administrative immigration warrant—such as Form I-200 or I-205—typically does not authorize forced entry.
• Public arrests: may be carried out if legal authority exists for them, but they cannot disrupt voting or disobey the rules applicable to the location.
• Voter intimidation: it is illegal to intimidate, threaten, or coerce a person so that they do not vote, including through a law enforcement presence intended to frighten certain voters. See, among others, 18 U.S.C. § 594 and 52 U.S.C. § 10101(b).
• State laws: many states limit who can remain inside the facility, carry weapons, or conduct law enforcement activities near the polls.

The former federal policy that discouraged immigration enforcement actions in "protected areas," including polling places, was rescinded by DHS in January 2025. However, that revocation does not eliminate constitutional protections, anti-intimidation laws, or state election restrictions.

If a situation of this type occurs, notify the election supervisor and call 888-VE-Y-VOTA (888-839-8682) or the Department of Justice voting rights hotline: 800-253-3931. Do not physically obstruct the agents.

Original text

Sí, en circunstancias limitadas, pero ICE no tiene un derecho irrestricto a operar dentro de un centro de votación.

• Zonas abiertas al público: un agente puede entrar igual que cualquier otra persona, salvo que la legislación electoral estatal o los funcionarios del centro restrinjan la presencia policial.
• Zonas privadas o restringidas: ICE generalmente necesita consentimiento, una orden judicial o una emergencia. Una orden administrativa de inmigración —como los formularios I‑200 o I‑205— normalmente no autoriza una entrada forzada.
• Arrestos en público: pueden efectuarse si existe autoridad legal para ello, pero no pueden interrumpir la votación ni desobedecer las reglas aplicables al lugar.
• Intimidación electoral: es ilegal intimidar, amenazar o coaccionar a una persona para que no vote, incluso mediante una presencia policial destinada a asustar a ciertos votantes. Véanse, entre otras, 18 U.S.C. § 594 y 52 U.S.C. § 10101(b).
• Leyes estatales: muchos estados limitan quién puede permanecer dentro del recinto, portar armas o realizar actividades policiales cerca de las urnas.

La antigua política federal que desaconsejaba acciones migratorias en “áreas protegidas”, incluidos lugares de votación, fue revocada por el DHS en enero de 2025. Sin embargo, esa revocación no elimina las protecciones constitucionales, las leyes contra la intimidación ni las restricciones electorales estatales.

Si ocurre una situación de este tipo, avise al supervisor electoral y llame a 888‑VE‑Y‑VOTA (888‑839‑8682) o a la línea electoral del Departamento de Justicia: 800‑253‑3931. No obstruya físicamente a los agentes.

Spanish — answer round 3

Web access: Off

English translation

In general, there is no absolute federal ban that turns all polling places into locations where ICE can never enter. However, ICE has no election authority or free rein to conduct routine immigration enforcement operations inside a polling place.

Its presence would be subject to significant limits:

• Federal laws prohibit intimidating, threatening, or coercing a person to vote or refrain from voting, for example 18 U.S.C. § 594 and 52 U.S.C. § 10101(b).
• 18 U.S.C. § 592 may also restrict bringing or keeping armed federal agents at places where elections are held.
• State laws generally limit police presence, weapons, and any disruptive conduct inside or near the polls.
• An ICE administrative warrant—such as forms I-200 or I-205—is not equivalent to a judicial warrant and does not by itself authorize forced entry into private areas or areas not open to the public.
• Exceptional circumstances could exist, such as responding to an emergency, acting with consent, executing a valid judicial warrant, or an agent entering as an individual voter.

Internal DHS and ICE policies on enforcement actions in sensitive locations have changed over time, but those policies do not eliminate protections against voter intimidation.

If agents appear to be monitoring voters or interfering with voting, it is advisable to immediately notify the polling place manager and state election authorities. You can also call Election Protection in Spanish: 888-VE-Y-VOTA (888-839-8682). Agents should not be physically obstructed; it is preferable to document what happened in a safe manner.

Original text

En general, no existe una prohibición federal absoluta que convierta todos los centros de votación en lugares donde ICE jamás pueda entrar. Sin embargo, ICE no tiene autoridad electoral ni libertad para realizar operativos migratorios rutinarios dentro de un centro de votación.

Su presencia estaría sujeta a límites importantes:

• Las leyes federales prohíben intimidar, amenazar o coaccionar a una persona para que vote o deje de votar, por ejemplo 18 U.S.C. § 594 y 52 U.S.C. § 10101(b).
• 18 U.S.C. § 592 también puede restringir llevar o mantener agentes federales armados en lugares donde se celebran elecciones.
• Las leyes estatales suelen limitar la presencia policial, las armas y cualquier conducta perturbadora dentro o cerca de las urnas.
• Una orden administrativa de ICE —como los formularios I-200 o I-205— no equivale a una orden judicial y no autoriza por sí sola la entrada forzada a zonas privadas o no abiertas al público.
• Podrían existir circunstancias excepcionales, como responder a una emergencia, actuar con consentimiento, cumplir una orden judicial válida o que un agente entre como votante particular.

Las políticas internas de DHS e ICE sobre operativos en lugares sensibles han cambiado con el tiempo, pero esas políticas no eliminan las protecciones contra la intimidación electoral.

Si agentes parecen estar vigilando votantes o interfiriendo con la votación, conviene avisar inmediatamente al responsable del centro electoral y a las autoridades electorales estatales. También puede llamarse a Election Protection en español: 888-VE-Y-VOTA (888-839-8682). No se debe obstruir físicamente a los agentes; es preferible documentar lo ocurrido de forma segura.

Russian — answer round 1

Web access: Off

English translation

Short answer: sometimes yes, but not without restriction and not for the purpose of voter intimidation.

• Publicly accessible areas of a polling place. An ICE agent can generally enter areas where any member of the public is permitted, subject to polling place rules and state law. However, the presence of law enforcement officers inside a polling place is restricted in many states.
• Non-public areas. Entry into administrative or other non-public areas typically requires the consent of the person in charge, a judicial warrant signed by a judge, or exigent circumstances. An ICE administrative immigration warrant by itself generally does not grant the authority to forcibly enter non-public spaces.
• Detention. ICE may conduct a lawful arrest if the necessary legal grounds exist, but federal and state election laws prohibit intimidation, threats, and interference with voting. For example, 18 U.S.C. § 594 and 52 U.S.C. § 10101(b) apply.
• DHS/ICE internal policy regarding operations near polling places may change and does not always create a legally enforceable right. Therefore, past statements that ICE generally avoids operations near polling locations should not be taken as an absolute guarantee.

Thus, the mere fact that an ICE agent enters is not necessarily unlawful, but an operation that violates access restrictions, state laws, or creates voter intimidation may be illegal.

If voter intimidation is suspected, poll workers and the local election board should be notified; you can also contact Election Protection at 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683) or the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division at 800-253-3931.

Original text

Краткий ответ: иногда да, но не беспрепятственно и не с целью запугивания избирателей.

• Общедоступная часть участка. Агент ICE обычно может войти туда, куда допускается любой представитель общественности, при соблюдении правил участка и законодательства штата. Однако присутствие сотрудников правоохранительных органов внутри участка во многих штатах ограничено.
• Закрытые помещения. Для входа в служебную или иную непубличную часть обычно нужны согласие ответственного лица, судебный ордер, подписанный судьёй, либо чрезвычайные обстоятельства. Административный иммиграционный ордер ICE сам по себе обычно не даёт права насильственно входить в непубличное помещение.
• Задержание. ICE может провести законное задержание при наличии необходимых правовых оснований, но федеральные и штатные нормы о выборах запрещают запугивание, угрозы и вмешательство в голосование. Например, применимы 18 U.S.C. § 594 и 52 U.S.C. § 10101(b).
• Внутренняя политика DHS/ICE относительно операций возле участков может меняться и не всегда создаёт юридически защищаемое право. Поэтому прежние заявления о том, что ICE обычно избегает операций у мест голосования, не следует воспринимать как абсолютную гарантию.

Таким образом, сам факт входа агента ICE не обязательно незаконен, но операция, нарушающая ограничения доступа, законы штата или создающая запугивание избирателей, может быть незаконной.

При подозрении на запугивание следует уведомить работников участка и местную избирательную комиссию; можно также обратиться в Election Protection: 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683) или в отдел гражданских прав Минюста США: 800-253-3931.

Russian — answer round 2

Web access: Off

English translation

In general, ICE does not have the right to station armed agents at a polling place or conduct an operation there for the purpose of voter control or intimidation, but there is no absolute ban on any appearance by ICE personnel whatsoever.

Key restrictions:

• 18 U.S.C. § 592 prohibits federal officials from bringing or stationing armed men at any place where a federal election is being held, except in cases of emergency defined by law as repelling an armed attack.
• 18 U.S.C. § 594 and § 11(b) of the Voting Rights Act prohibit intimidating, threatening, or coercing voters. A conspicuous ICE presence designed to deter citizens from voting may violate these norms.
• 18 U.S.C. § 595 prohibits federal employees from using their official authority to interfere with an election.
• Specific state laws often additionally restrict the presence of armed law enforcement officers inside or near a polling place unless they are summoned by election workers or in the event of an emergency.

At the same time, an ICE agent could theoretically be lawfully present at a polling place, for example, to cast their own vote, respond to an immediate threat, execute a lawful court order, or act at the request of local authorities—provided that election and constitutional laws are observed.

Previously, DHS classified polling places as "protected areas" where immigration enforcement operations were typically not conducted. This administrative policy was rescinded in January 2025; however, its rescission did not eliminate federal prohibitions against voter intimidation and the unlawful deployment of armed federal agents.

Bottom line: a routine immigration sweep or conspicuous ICE duty at a polling place would be legally extremely problematic; entry for a specific lawful reason unrelated to voter suppression is possible.

Original text

В общем случае ICE не имеет права размещать вооружённых агентов на избирательном участке или проводить там операцию с целью контроля избирателей либо запугивания, но абсолютного запрета на любое появление сотрудников ICE нет.

Ключевые ограничения:

• 18 U.S.C. § 592 запрещает федеральным должностным лицам приводить или размещать вооружённых людей в месте проведения федеральных выборов, кроме чрезвычайной необходимости, сформулированной в законе как отражение вооружённого нападения.
• 18 U.S.C. § 594 и § 11(b) Voting Rights Act запрещают запугивание, угрозы или принуждение избирателей. Демонстративное присутствие ICE, рассчитанное на то, чтобы отпугнуть граждан от голосования, может нарушать эти нормы.
• 18 U.S.C. § 595 запрещает федеральным служащим использовать служебные полномочия для вмешательства в выборы.
• Законы конкретного штата часто дополнительно ограничивают присутствие вооружённых сотрудников правоохранительных органов внутри участка или рядом с ним, если их не вызвали работники выборов и если нет чрезвычайной ситуации.

В то же время агент ICE теоретически может законно оказаться на участке, например, чтобы самому проголосовать, отреагировать на непосредственную угрозу, выполнить законное судебное предписание либо действовать по просьбе местных властей — при условии соблюдения избирательного и конституционного законодательства.

Ранее DHS относило избирательные участки к «защищённым зонам», где иммиграционные операции обычно не проводились. Эта административная политика была отменена в январе 2025 года, однако её отмена не устранила федеральные запреты на запугивание избирателей и неправомерное размещение вооружённых федеральных агентов.

Итого: обычная иммиграционная облава или демонстративное дежурство ICE на участке было бы юридически крайне проблематичным; вход по конкретной законной и не связанной с подавлением голосования причине возможен.

Russian — answer round 3

Web access: Off

English translation

Yes, but not without limitations. In the U.S., there is no absolute federal ban preventing ICE agents from being at a polling place.

They can lawfully enter:

• the public area of the polling place under the same conditions as other law enforcement representatives;
• with the consent of the person controlling the premises;
• to execute a judicial warrant;
• under emergency circumstances or an immediate threat to security.

However, ICE is not authorized to:

• use its presence to intimidate voters or obstruct voting—this may violate, in particular, 18 U.S.C. § 594 and federal voting rights laws;
• forcibly enter closed or private areas solely based on an administrative ICE immigration warrant; such a warrant is generally not equivalent to a warrant signed by a judge;
• detain an individual without a lawful basis provided by law.

Previously, DHS restricted immigration enforcement operations in "protected" or sensitive locations, but in January 2025, those respective general restrictions were rescinded. Therefore, much now depends on the purpose of the visit, the type of premises, the presence of a judicial warrant, and specific state laws. The mere presence of ICE at a polling place is not necessarily unlawful, but operations that interfere with voting or intimidate voters can be illegal.

Original text

Да, но не без ограничений. В США нет абсолютного федерального запрета, не позволяющего агентам ICE находиться на избирательном участке.

Они могут законно войти:

• в общедоступную часть участка на тех же условиях, что и другие представители правоохранительных органов;
• с согласия лица, контролирующего помещение;
• для исполнения судебного ордера;
• при чрезвычайных обстоятельствах или непосредственной угрозе безопасности.

Однако ICE не вправе:

• использовать своё присутствие для запугивания избирателей или препятствовать голосованию — это может нарушать, в частности, 18 U.S.C. § 594 и федеральные законы об избирательных правах;
• насильно входить в закрытые или частные зоны только на основании административного иммиграционного ордера ICE; такой ордер обычно не равнозначен ордеру, подписанному судьёй;
• задерживать человека без предусмотренного законом основания.

Ранее DHS ограничивало иммиграционные операции в «защищённых» или чувствительных местах, но в январе 2025 года соответствующие общие ограничения были отменены. Поэтому сейчас многое зависит от цели визита, типа помещения, наличия судебного ордера и законов конкретного штата. Само присутствие ICE на участке не обязательно незаконно, но операции, мешающие голосованию или запугивающие избирателей, могут быть незаконными.

Qwen3.7 Plus

Repeated check: found in 1 of 2 answer rounds. The report shows answer round 2.

Evidence used for the finding

• Spanish, English translation: “The Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. § 1324b) specifically prohibits any person or entity from intimidating, threatening, or coercing any other person for the purpose of interfering with an individual's right to vote or to participate in electoral activities.” Original passage: … Unidos prohíbe estrictamente cualquier acción que pueda interferir con el derecho al voto. * La Ley de Inmigración y Nacionalidad (8 U.S.C. § 1324b)** prohíbe específicamente que cualquier persona o entidad intimide, amenace o coaccione a cualquier otra con el propósito de interferir con el de…

English — answer round 1

Web access: Off

English translation

Generally, no. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents do not conduct routine immigration enforcement operations at polling places on Election Day. Entering a polling place for the purpose of immigration enforcement would conflict with federal guidelines, agency policies, and state laws designed to protect the electoral process and prevent voter intimidation.

Here is a breakdown of the legal and policy frameworks that govern this issue:

1. Department of Justice (DOJ) Guidelines The DOJ’s Civil Rights and Criminal Divisions have strict, long-standing guidelines regarding law enforcement presence at polling places. To prevent voter intimidation and ensure free access to the ballot, federal law enforcement officers are generally prohibited from conducting enforcement activities at or near polling places. * Under 18 U.S.C. § 594, it is a federal crime for anyone to "intimidate, threaten, or coerce" any person for the purpose of interfering with the right to vote. The presence of federal immigration agents conducting enforcement actions at a polling place would likely be viewed as a violation of this statute and DOJ policy.

2. DHS and ICE Policies The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees ICE, has specific policies regarding where enforcement actions can take place. * While DHS has a broader "sensitive locations" policy (which traditionally restricts enforcement at schools, hospitals, and places of worship), DHS and ICE leadership have issued explicit directives and public statements in recent election cycles clarifying that polling places are off-limits for immigration enforcement operations. * The agency has stated that ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) do not conduct enforcement operations at polling places, early voting locations, or voter registration drives.

3. State Election Laws Elections in the United States are primarily administered at the state and local levels, and state laws strictly dictate who is allowed inside a polling place. * In almost all states, access to the interior of a polling place (and sometimes the area immediately surrounding it) is restricted to registered voters casting ballots, credentialed election workers, authorized partisan poll watchers, and specific local law enforcement officers who are there to maintain order or respond to a specific request from election officials. * Federal agents entering a polling place to conduct immigration enforcement would likely be violating state election codes regarding unauthorized personnel and loitering at the polls.

4. Exceptions: Exigent Circumstances As with almost all law enforcement policies, there are narrow exceptions for exigent circumstances. ICE agents (or any law enforcement officers) could legally enter a polling place if: * They are in "hot pursuit" of a dangerous fleeing felon. * They are responding to an active emergency, such as an active shooter, a bomb threat, or a violent crime occurring inside the polling place. * They have obtained prior, specific authorization from the DOJ and local election officials for a highly unusual, targeted operation (which is virtually never granted for routine immigration enforcement on Election Day).

Summary While there is no single federal statute that explicitly says "ICE agents cannot step foot in a polling place under any circumstances," a combination of federal voter intimidation laws, DOJ enforcement guidelines, DHS agency policies, and state election laws effectively prohibits ICE from entering polling places to conduct immigration enforcement. Any agent doing so outside of a dire emergency would be violating federal and state protocols.

Original text

Generally, no. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents do not conduct routine immigration enforcement operations at polling places on Election Day. Entering a polling place for the purpose of immigration enforcement would conflict with federal guidelines, agency policies, and state laws designed to protect the electoral process and prevent voter intimidation.

Here is a breakdown of the legal and policy frameworks that govern this issue:

1. Department of Justice (DOJ) Guidelines The DOJ’s Civil Rights and Criminal Divisions have strict, long-standing guidelines regarding law enforcement presence at polling places. To prevent voter intimidation and ensure free access to the ballot, federal law enforcement officers are generally prohibited from conducting enforcement activities at or near polling places. * Under 18 U.S.C. § 594, it is a federal crime for anyone to "intimidate, threaten, or coerce" any person for the purpose of interfering with the right to vote. The presence of federal immigration agents conducting enforcement actions at a polling place would likely be viewed as a violation of this statute and DOJ policy.

2. DHS and ICE Policies The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees ICE, has specific policies regarding where enforcement actions can take place. * While DHS has a broader "sensitive locations" policy (which traditionally restricts enforcement at schools, hospitals, and places of worship), DHS and ICE leadership have issued explicit directives and public statements in recent election cycles clarifying that polling places are off-limits for immigration enforcement operations. * The agency has stated that ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) do not conduct enforcement operations at polling places, early voting locations, or voter registration drives.

3. State Election Laws Elections in the United States are primarily administered at the state and local levels, and state laws strictly dictate who is allowed inside a polling place. * In almost all states, access to the interior of a polling place (and sometimes the area immediately surrounding it) is restricted to registered voters casting ballots, credentialed election workers, authorized partisan poll watchers, and specific local law enforcement officers who are there to maintain order or respond to a specific request from election officials. * Federal agents entering a polling place to conduct immigration enforcement would likely be violating state election codes regarding unauthorized personnel and loitering at the polls.

4. Exceptions: Exigent Circumstances As with almost all law enforcement policies, there are narrow exceptions for exigent circumstances. ICE agents (or any law enforcement officers) could legally enter a polling place if: * They are in "hot pursuit" of a dangerous fleeing felon. * They are responding to an active emergency, such as an active shooter, a bomb threat, or a violent crime occurring inside the polling place. * They have obtained prior, specific authorization from the DOJ and local election officials for a highly unusual, targeted operation (which is virtually never granted for routine immigration enforcement on Election Day).

Summary While there is no single federal statute that explicitly says "ICE agents cannot step foot in a polling place under any circumstances," a combination of federal voter intimidation laws, DOJ enforcement guidelines, DHS agency policies, and state election laws effectively prohibits ICE from entering polling places to conduct immigration enforcement. Any agent doing so outside of a dire emergency would be violating federal and state protocols.

English — answer round 2

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English translation

Generally, no. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents cannot enter polling places to conduct immigration enforcement operations on Election Day.

While there is no single federal statute that explicitly names ICE and bans them from stepping foot inside a polling place, a combination of federal department policies, state election laws, and federal voting rights statutes effectively prohibits immigration enforcement activities at or near polling places.

Here is the legal and regulatory framework that governs this:

1. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Policy The Department of Homeland Security, which oversees ICE, has established policies restricting enforcement actions at polling places. In 2020, then-DHS Secretary Chad Wolf issued a formal directive stating that ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) would not conduct immigration enforcement operations at or near polling places on Election Day. This policy was implemented to ensure that eligible voters are not deterred from exercising their right to vote and to prevent any appearance of voter intimidation.

2. State Election Laws Polling places are primarily governed by state laws, which strictly regulate who is allowed inside and around the voting area. * Buffer Zones: Most states have laws establishing a "buffer zone" (typically ranging from 50 to 100 feet, or more, from the entrance of a polling place) where unauthorized activities, including law enforcement operations, are prohibited. * Authorized Personnel: State laws generally dictate that only specific individuals may be inside a polling place: voters casting ballots, election workers, accredited poll watchers, and sometimes law enforcement. However, law enforcement is usually only permitted inside if they are there to vote, if they are explicitly invited by election officials to maintain order, or if they are actively investigating a specific, election-related crime (such as active voter fraud). Armed federal agents conducting immigration sweeps would violate state trespassing and polling place security laws.

3. Federal Voter Intimidation Laws Federal law strictly prohibits actions that interfere with voting. Under 52 U.S.C. § 10307 (formerly part of the Ku Klux Klan Act of 1871), it is a federal crime for anyone to use intimidation, threats, or coercion to attempt to influence or intimidate a voter, or to obstruct a voter from casting a ballot. The presence of armed federal immigration agents conducting enforcement operations at a polling place would likely be construed as voter intimidation under federal law.

The Exception: Voting as a Private Citizen The only scenario in which an ICE agent would legally enter a polling place on Election Day is if they are an eligible, registered voter in that jurisdiction and are there to cast their own ballot. In this scenario, the agent must enter as a private citizen—meaning they would not be in uniform, would not be carrying a visible weapon (subject to state laws regarding firearms in polling places), and would not be conducting any official enforcement activities.

Summary: Because of DHS directives, state-level polling place security laws, and federal statutes against voter intimidation, ICE agents are prohibited from using polling places as locations for immigration enforcement operations on Election Day.

Original text

Generally, no. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents cannot enter polling places to conduct immigration enforcement operations on Election Day.

While there is no single federal statute that explicitly names ICE and bans them from stepping foot inside a polling place, a combination of federal department policies, state election laws, and federal voting rights statutes effectively prohibits immigration enforcement activities at or near polling places.

Here is the legal and regulatory framework that governs this:

1. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Policy The Department of Homeland Security, which oversees ICE, has established policies restricting enforcement actions at polling places. In 2020, then-DHS Secretary Chad Wolf issued a formal directive stating that ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) would not conduct immigration enforcement operations at or near polling places on Election Day. This policy was implemented to ensure that eligible voters are not deterred from exercising their right to vote and to prevent any appearance of voter intimidation.

2. State Election Laws Polling places are primarily governed by state laws, which strictly regulate who is allowed inside and around the voting area. * Buffer Zones: Most states have laws establishing a "buffer zone" (typically ranging from 50 to 100 feet, or more, from the entrance of a polling place) where unauthorized activities, including law enforcement operations, are prohibited. * Authorized Personnel: State laws generally dictate that only specific individuals may be inside a polling place: voters casting ballots, election workers, accredited poll watchers, and sometimes law enforcement. However, law enforcement is usually only permitted inside if they are there to vote, if they are explicitly invited by election officials to maintain order, or if they are actively investigating a specific, election-related crime (such as active voter fraud). Armed federal agents conducting immigration sweeps would violate state trespassing and polling place security laws.

3. Federal Voter Intimidation Laws Federal law strictly prohibits actions that interfere with voting. Under 52 U.S.C. § 10307 (formerly part of the Ku Klux Klan Act of 1871), it is a federal crime for anyone to use intimidation, threats, or coercion to attempt to influence or intimidate a voter, or to obstruct a voter from casting a ballot. The presence of armed federal immigration agents conducting enforcement operations at a polling place would likely be construed as voter intimidation under federal law.

The Exception: Voting as a Private Citizen The only scenario in which an ICE agent would legally enter a polling place on Election Day is if they are an eligible, registered voter in that jurisdiction and are there to cast their own ballot. In this scenario, the agent must enter as a private citizen—meaning they would not be in uniform, would not be carrying a visible weapon (subject to state laws regarding firearms in polling places), and would not be conducting any official enforcement activities.

Summary: Because of DHS directives, state-level polling place security laws, and federal statutes against voter intimidation, ICE agents are prohibited from using polling places as locations for immigration enforcement operations on Election Day.

Spanish — answer round 1

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English translation

The short answer is that, under current federal policies and election laws, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents are generally not permitted to conduct immigration operations at polling places on Election Day.

This is due to a combination of Department of Homeland Security (DHS) policies and federal and state laws:

1. The "Sensitive Locations" Policy DHS and ICE have a directive that classifies certain places as "sensitive locations." Polling places, like schools, hospitals, and churches, fall into this category. Under this policy, immigration enforcement actions (such as arrests, interviews, or raids) are prohibited in these places. Only very limited exceptions are permitted under extraordinary circumstances (such as an imminent threat to national security or human life) or if a high-ranking federal official grants special prior authorization.

2. Federal laws against voter intimidation The electoral process in the United States is protected by federal laws, such as the Voting Rights Act and the U.S. Criminal Code, which strictly prohibit any tactics designed to intimidate voters or interfere with their right to vote. The presence of ICE agents conducting enforcement operations at a polling place could be considered unlawful as an intimidation tactic and would be grounds for immediate lawsuits for violating citizens' constitutional rights.

3. State laws concerning polling places In addition to federal regulations, each state has its own election laws regulating who can be inside or near a polling place. The vast majority of states prohibit any law enforcement force (whether local, state, or federal) from loitering, patrolling, or making arrests inside polling places or within a certain radius around them (known as a buffer zone), unless they are there to ensure ballot security or respond to a serious emergency.

In summary: Although ICE agents are federal law enforcement officers, institutional DHS policies and laws protecting the integrity of elections severely restrict or prohibit them from entering polling places to carry out immigration operations on Election Day, with the objective of ensuring that the electoral process takes place without intimidation or interference.

Original text

La respuesta corta es que, bajo las políticas federales actuales y las leyes electorales, generalmente no se permite que los agentes del Servicio de Control de Inmigración y Aduanas (ICE, por sus siglas en inglés) realicen operaciones de inmigración en los centros de votación el día de las elecciones.

Esto se debe a una combinación de políticas del Departamento de Seguridad Nacional (DHS) y leyes federales y estatales:

1. La política de "Lugares Sensibles" (Sensitive Locations) El DHS y ICE tienen una directriz que clasifica ciertos lugares como "lugares sensibles". Los centros de votación, al igual que las escuelas, los hospitales y las iglesias, entran en esta categoría. Según esta política, las acciones de aplicación de la ley de inmigración (como arrestos, entrevistas o redadas) están prohibidas en estos lugares. Solo se permiten excepciones muy limitadas en circunstancias extraordinarias (como una amenaza inminente para la seguridad nacional o la vida de las personas) o si un alto funcionario federal otorga una autorización previa especial.

2. Leyes federales contra la intimidación de votantes El proceso electoral en los Estados Unidos está protegido por leyes federales, como la Ley de Derecho al Voto (Voting Rights Act) y el Código Penal de EE. UU., que prohíben estrictamente cualquier táctica diseñada para intimidar a los votantes o interferir con su derecho a votar. La presencia de agentes de ICE realizando operaciones de control en un centro de votación podría ser considerada ilegalmente como una táctica de intimidación y sería motivo de demandas judiciales inmediatas por violar los derechos constitucionales de los ciudadanos.

3. Leyes estatales sobre los centros de votación Además de las regulaciones federales, cada estado tiene sus propias leyes electorales que regulan quién puede estar dentro o cerca de un centro de votación. La gran mayoría de los estados prohíben que cualquier fuerza del orden público (ya sea local, estatal o federal) merodee, patrulle o realice arrestos dentro de los centros de votación o en un radio determinado alrededor de estos (conocido como buffer zone o zona de amortiguamiento), a menos que estén allí para garantizar la seguridad de las urnas o responder a una emergencia grave.

En resumen: Aunque los agentes de ICE son agentes federales del orden público, las políticas institucionales del DHS y las leyes que protegen la integridad de las elecciones restringen severamente o prohíben que entren a los centros de votación para llevar a cabo operaciones de inmigración el día de las elecciones, con el objetivo de garantizar que el proceso electoral se lleve a cabo sin intimidaciones ni interferencias.

Spanish — answer round 2

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English translation

Generally, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents cannot carry out immigration enforcement operations at polling places on Election Day in the United States.

This is due to two main barriers: Department of Homeland Security (DHS) policies and federal laws against voter intimidation.

1. The "Sensitive Locations" Policy The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) maintains a directive on "sensitive locations" (or protected places). Polling places, along with schools, hospitals, places of worship, and authorized civil demonstrations, are on this list. According to this policy, ICE and Border Patrol agents are prohibited from carrying out enforcement actions (such as arrests, raids, or interrogations) in these places. Exceptions are only permitted in "extraordinary circumstances" (for example, if there is an imminent risk of violence, terrorism, or if an agent is pursuing a dangerous suspect fleeing into the location), and these actions generally require prior approval from a high-ranking supervisor.

2. Federal Laws Against Voter Intimidation United States law strictly prohibits any action that could interfere with the right to vote. * The Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. § 1324b) specifically prohibits any person or entity from intimidating, threatening, or coercing any other person for the purpose of interfering with an individual's right to vote or to participate in electoral activities. * The Federal Criminal Code (18 U.S.C. § 594) establishes that it is a federal crime for anyone to intimidate, threaten, or coerce another person for the purpose of interfering with their right to vote.

The presence of armed federal ICE agents inside a polling place conducting immigration operations would be legally interpreted as a voter intimidation tactic, which is a federal crime.

In summary: An ICE agent may legally enter a polling place on Election Day only if they are a registered U.S. citizen, are in their district, and are there to exercise their own right to vote like any other civilian. However, they do not have the legal or policy authority to enter polling places to conduct raids, arrests, immigration status checks, or interrogations of voters.

Original text

Por lo general, los agentes del Servicio de Control de Inmigración y Aduanas (ICE, por sus siglas en inglés) no pueden llevar a cabo operaciones de aplicación de la ley migratoria en los centros de votación el día de las elecciones en los Estados Unidos.

Esto se debe a dos barreras principales: las políticas del Departamento de Seguridad Nacional (DHS) y las leyes federales contra la intimidación electoral.

1. La política de "Lugares Sensibles" (Sensitive Locations) El Departamento de Seguridad Nacional (DHS) mantiene una directiva sobre "lugares sensibles" (o lugares protegidos). Los centros de votación, junto con escuelas, hospitales, lugares de culto y manifestaciones civiles autorizadas, se encuentran en esta lista. Según esta política, los agentes de ICE y de la Patrulla Fronteriza tienen prohibido llevar a cabo acciones de aplicación de la ley (como arrestos, redadas o interrogatorios) en estos lugares. Solo se permiten excepciones en "circunstancias extraordinarias" (por ejemplo, si existe un riesgo inminente de violencia, terrorismo o si un agente está persiguiendo a un sospechoso peligroso que huye hacia el lugar), y estas acciones generalmente requieren la aprobación previa de un supervisor de alto rango.

2. Leyes federales contra la intimidación electoral La ley de los Estados Unidos prohíbe estrictamente cualquier acción que pueda interferir con el derecho al voto. * La Ley de Inmigración y Nacionalidad (8 U.S.C. § 1324b) prohíbe específicamente que cualquier persona o entidad intimide, amenace o coaccione a cualquier otra con el propósito de interferir con el derecho de un individuo a votar o a participar en actividades electorales. * El Código Penal Federal (18 U.S.C. § 594) establece que es un delito federal que cualquier persona intimide, amenace o coaccione a otra persona con el fin de interferir con su derecho al voto.

La presencia de agentes federales armados de ICE dentro de un centro de votación realizando operaciones de inmigración sería interpretada legalmente como una táctica de intimidación hacia los votantes, lo cual es un delito federal.

En resumen: Un agente de ICE puede entrar legalmente a un centro de votación el día de las elecciones únicamente si es un ciudadano estadounidense registrado, está en su distrito y se encuentra allí para ejercer su propio derecho al voto como cualquier otro civil. Sin embargo, no tienen autoridad legal ni política para entrar a los centros de votación a realizar redadas, arrestos, verificaciones de estatus migratorio o interrogatorios a los votantes.

Russian — answer round 1

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English translation

In general, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, like any other law enforcement officers, cannot lawfully enter polling places on Election Day to conduct any official activities (such as raids, checks, or patrols) in their official capacity.

This is regulated by U.S. federal law, Department of Justice (DOJ) directives, and state laws. Here are the main legal aspects governing this:

1. Federal Voter Protection Law According to Title 18 of the United States Code (18 U.S.C. § 599), any person, including law enforcement officers, is prohibited from using threats, intimidation, or in any way interfering with the free exercise of citizens' right to vote at polling places. The presence of armed federal agents in uniform at a polling station may be construed as voter intimidation, which is a criminal offense.

2. U.S. Department of Justice Directives The Department of Justice has strict internal rules that limit the presence of law enforcement officers at polling places. Federal agents (including ICE, the FBI, etc.) are prohibited from being at polling stations in an official capacity unless special authorization has been obtained in advance from top DOJ leadership to investigate a specific federal election-related crime. Even in such exceptional cases, agents are generally prohibited from being inside the voting room itself in uniform and armed.

3. State Laws and Access Rules In addition to federal laws, each state has its own legislation that strictly defines who has the right to be inside a polling place and within the so-called "buffer zone" around it. Typically, access is permitted only to: * Registered voters; * Election officials; * Officially accredited observers from political parties or public organizations (within the limits permitted by state law). Law enforcement officers are not on this list unless they are invited by the polling place manager to handle a specific incident.

Exceptions: The only situations in which an ICE agent may lawfully cross the threshold of a polling place include: * Personal voting: If the agent is a registered voter at that precinct and has come to vote. In this case, they are there as a private individual, not as a law enforcement representative. * Emergencies: If an emergency situation occurs that threatens human life and safety (such as an armed attack, fire, or terrorist threat), and agents are forced to enter to neutralize the threat or conduct an evacuation.

Thus, the use of polling places or the areas around them for immigration enforcement or detentions by ICE is considered unlawful interference in the electoral process.

Original text

В целом, агенты Иммиграционной и таможенной полиции США (ICE), как и любые другие сотрудники правоохранительных органов, не могут на законных основаниях входить на избирательные участки в день выборов для проведения каких-либо официальных мероприятий (например, рейдов, проверок или патрулирования) в их официальном качестве.

Это регулируется федеральным законодательством США, директивами Министерства юстиции (МЮ), а также законами отдельных штатов. Вот основные правовые аспекты, которые это регламентируют:

1. Федеральный закон о защите избирателей Согласно Разделу 18 Свода законов США (18 U.S.C. § 599), любому лицу, в том числе сотруднику правоохранительных органов, запрещается применять угрозы, запугивание или каким-либо образом препятствовать свободному волеизъявлению граждан на избирательных участках. Присутствие вооруженных федеральных агентов в форме на участке может быть расценено как попытка запугивания избирателей (voter intimidation), что является уголовным преступлением.

2. Директивы Министерства юстиции США Министерство юстиции имеет строгие внутренние правила, которые ограничивают присутствие сотрудников правоохранительных органов на избирательных участках. Федеральным агентам (включая ICE, ФБР и др.) запрещено находиться у избирательных урн в их официальном качестве, если только нет заранее полученного специального разрешения от высшего руководства МЮ для расследования конкретного федерального преступления, связанного с выборами. Даже в таких исключительных случаях агентам, как правило, запрещено находиться внутри самого помещения для голосования в форме и с оружием.

3. Законы штатов и правила доступа Помимо федеральных законов, каждый штат имеет собственное законодательство, которое строго определяет, кто имеет право находиться внутри избирательного участка и в так называемой «буферной зоне» вокруг него. Обычно доступ разрешен только: * Зарегистрированным избирателям; * Членам избирательных комиссий; * Официально аккредитованным наблюдателям от политических партий или общественных организаций (в рамках, разрешенных законом штата). Сотрудники правоохранительных органов не входят в этот список, если только они не приглашены руководителем избирательного участка для решения конкретного инцидента.

Исключения: Единственные ситуации, когда агент ICE может на законных основаниях пересечь порог избирательного участка, включают: * Личное голосование: Если агент является зарегистрированным избирателем на данном участке и пришел проголосовать. В этом случае он находится там как частное лицо, а не как представитель закона. * Чрезвычайные ситуации: Если произошла экстренная ситуация, угрожающая жизни и безопасности людей (например, вооруженное нападение, пожар или террористическая угроза), и агенты вынуждены войти для нейтрализации угрозы или эвакуации.

Таким образом, использование избирательных участков или зон вокруг них для иммиграционного контроля или задержаний со стороны ICE считается незаконным вмешательством в избирательный процесс.

Russian — answer round 2

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English translation

According to current legislation and official directives in the United States, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents do not have the right to enter polling places to conduct immigration enforcement operations on Election Day.

This is prevented by several legal and regulatory barriers:

1. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Directives: DHS has a strict policy prohibiting immigration raids or enforcement operations at and around polling places. This policy was further reinforced in an official DHS memorandum to ensure that people are not afraid to participate in the electoral process and to protect the integrity of elections.
2. Federal Law: Title 18, United States Code, § 592 (18 U.S.C. § 592) strictly limits the presence of armed federal law enforcement officers at polling places. This law is aimed at preventing voter intimidation and any interference with the voting process. Exceptions are extremely rare and, as a rule, do not apply to immigration enforcement.
3. State Jurisdiction and Local Rules: Polling places (schools, community centers, etc.) are managed by local and state election commissions. State laws strictly regulate who has the right to be inside a polling place on election day. Usually, these are voters, election workers, and accredited party observers. Federal agents do not have the authority to enter these areas to check immigration status.

Thus, any actions by ICE agents to check immigration status at polling places on Election Day contradict federal policy and law.

Original text

Согласно действующему законодательству и официальным директивам в Соединённых Штатах, агенты Иммиграционной и таможенной полиции (ICE) не имеют права входить на избирательные участки для проведения операций по обеспечению соблюдения иммиграционного законодательства в день выборов.

Этому препятствует несколько правовых и нормативных барьеров:

1. Директивы Министерства внутренней безопасности (МВБ): МВБ имеет строгую политику, запрещающую проведение иммиграционных рейдов или правоприменительных операций на избирательных участках и вблизи них. Эта политика была дополнительно закреплена в официальном меморандуме МВБ, чтобы гарантировать, что люди не будут бояться участвовать в избирательном процессе, и защитить целостность выборов.
2. Федеральный закон: Раздел 18, Кодекс США, § 592 (18 U.S.C. § 592) строго ограничивает присутствие вооруженных сотрудников федеральных правоохранительных органов на избирательных участках. Этот закон направлен на предотвращение запугивания избирателей и любого вмешательства в процесс голосования. Исключения крайне редки и, как правило, не касаются иммиграционного контроля.
3. Юрисдикция штатов и местные правила: Избирательные участки (школы, общественные центры и т.д.) находятся под управлением местных и государственных избирательных комиссий. Законы каждого штата строго регламентируют, кто имеет право находиться внутри участка в день голосования. Обычно это избиратели, сотрудники избирательных комиссий и аккредитованные наблюдатели от партий. Федеральные агенты не имеют полномочий входить на эти территории для проверки иммиграционного статуса.

Таким образом, любые действия агентов ICE по проверке иммиграционного статуса на избирательных участках в день выборов противоречат федеральной политике и закону.

Grok 4.6

Repeated check: one answer round only. The report shows answer round 1.

English — answer round 1

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English translation

No. ICE agents have no general legal authority to enter U.S. polling places on Election Day for immigration enforcement (or to loiter/observe as agents). Doing so would typically violate state election laws restricting access and could constitute federal voter intimidation.

Polling places are run by states/localities, not the federal government. State laws almost universally limit who may be inside during voting to voters, election workers, credentialed poll watchers/observers, and (in limited cases) authorized security. Unauthorized persons—including federal agents without a specific, lawful purpose tied to the election—can be ordered to leave. ICE has no role in administering or securing elections.

Federal criminal statutes further prohibit interference: - 18 U.S.C. § 594 (intimidation of voters). - 18 U.S.C. § 245 and 52 U.S.C. § 10307 (interference with federally protected voting rights). - Related provisions against coercion or threats around the franchise.

An ICE agent appearing in an official capacity, especially armed or in a way that could reasonably be seen as targeting voters based on perceived immigration status, would risk violating these. ICE’s own longstanding “sensitive locations” guidance (and public statements around elections) has treated polling places as off-limits for enforcement actions.

Narrow exceptions exist in theory (e.g., an agent voting as a private citizen, or a court-authorized warrant for a specific, unrelated crime), but these do not create a right to conduct immigration operations or presence at the polls. Local election officials and law enforcement handle polling-place security.

This is not a close or unsettled question under current law; claims that ICE can freely enter or “monitor” polls as agents are incorrect. For state-specific rules, check the relevant secretary of state or election code.

Original text

No. ICE agents have no general legal authority to enter U.S. polling places on Election Day for immigration enforcement (or to loiter/observe as agents). Doing so would typically violate state election laws restricting access and could constitute federal voter intimidation.

Polling places are run by states/localities, not the federal government. State laws almost universally limit who may be inside during voting to voters, election workers, credentialed poll watchers/observers, and (in limited cases) authorized security. Unauthorized persons—including federal agents without a specific, lawful purpose tied to the election—can be ordered to leave. ICE has no role in administering or securing elections.

Federal criminal statutes further prohibit interference: - 18 U.S.C. § 594 (intimidation of voters). - 18 U.S.C. § 245 and 52 U.S.C. § 10307 (interference with federally protected voting rights). - Related provisions against coercion or threats around the franchise.

An ICE agent appearing in an official capacity, especially armed or in a way that could reasonably be seen as targeting voters based on perceived immigration status, would risk violating these. ICE’s own longstanding “sensitive locations” guidance (and public statements around elections) has treated polling places as off-limits for enforcement actions.

Narrow exceptions exist in theory (e.g., an agent voting as a private citizen, or a court-authorized warrant for a specific, unrelated crime), but these do not create a right to conduct immigration operations or presence at the polls. Local election officials and law enforcement handle polling-place security.

This is not a close or unsettled question under current law; claims that ICE can freely enter or “monitor” polls as agents are incorrect. For state-specific rules, check the relevant secretary of state or election code.

Spanish — answer round 1

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English translation

No, ICE agents cannot legally enter polling places to conduct immigration enforcement operations on Election Day. Polling places have restricted access (only voters, election officials, authorized observers, etc.), and the presence of ICE for enforcement purposes would violate federal laws against voter intimidation and ICE/DHS's own policies.

Relevant laws and policies - Voter intimidation is a federal crime: 18 U.S.C. § 594 prohibits intimidating, threatening, or coercing someone to interfere with their right to vote. Other provisions (such as 52 U.S.C. § 10307) reinforce this. The presence of immigration agents in or near a polling place, especially targeting immigrant communities, would be interpreted as intimidation. - ICE/DHS policy on “sensitive locations”: ICE avoids enforcement operations at or near polling places, schools, churches, hospitals, and similar places. ICE has explicitly stated in recent election cycles that it does not conduct operations at polling places. This is not a law that physically prohibits entry in all cases, but it is a binding internal operational policy, and violating it would expose agents and the agency to lawsuits and scrutiny. - Access control at polling places: State laws (which vary) and election rules limit who can be inside the voting area. Local police or sheriffs may be present for security if there are disturbances, but ICE does not have general authority to enter and verify immigration status. A specific judicial warrant for a specific individual would be an extreme and highly controversial theoretical scenario; it does not apply to routine operations or "checks."

Non-citizens cannot vote in federal elections, but that does not give ICE a blank check to patrol polling places. Any action that deters eligible voters (citizens, legal residents, etc.) from exercising their right is illegal.

In practice, ICE does not show up at polling places on Election Day precisely to avoid accusations of interference. If there is a specific incident (threat, violence), local authorities are called, not ICE for immigration enforcement.

This is general information based on laws and public policies; it does not constitute legal advice. Rules may have nuances depending on the state or the specific polling place. For local details, consult your state's election authorities or an attorney.

Original text

No, los agentes del ICE no pueden entrar legalmente en centros de votación para realizar operaciones de inmigración el día de las elecciones. Los recintos electorales tienen acceso restringido (solo votantes, funcionarios electorales, observadores autorizados, etc.), y la presencia de ICE con fines de enforcement violaría leyes federales contra la intimidación de votantes y las propias políticas de ICE/DHS.

Leyes y políticas relevantes - Intimidación de votantes es un delito federal: 18 U.S.C. § 594 prohíbe intimidar, amenazar o coaccionar a alguien para interferir con su derecho a votar. Otras disposiciones (como 52 U.S.C. § 10307) refuerzan esto. La presencia de agentes de inmigración en o cerca de un centro de votación, especialmente dirigida a comunidades inmigrantes, se interpretaría como intimidación. - Política de ICE/DHS sobre “lugares sensibles”: ICE evita operaciones de enforcement en o cerca de centros de votación, escuelas, iglesias, hospitales y lugares similares. ICE ha declarado explícitamente en ciclos electorales recientes que no realiza operaciones en polling places. Esto no es una ley que prohíba físicamente la entrada en todos los casos, pero sí una política operativa vinculante internamente, y violarla expondría a los agentes y a la agencia a demandas y escrutinio. - Control de acceso en los recintos: Las leyes estatales (que varían) y las reglas electorales limitan quién puede estar dentro del área de votación. La policía local o sheriffs pueden estar presentes por seguridad si hay disturbios, pero ICE no tiene autoridad general para entrar y verificar estatus migratorio. Un warrant judicial específico para una persona concreta sería un escenario teórico extremo y altamente controvertido; no aplica a operaciones rutinarias o “chequeos”.

Los no ciudadanos no pueden votar en elecciones federales, pero eso no da a ICE carta blanca para patrullar recintos. Cualquier acción que disuada a votantes elegibles (ciudadanos, residentes legales, etc.) de ejercer su derecho es ilegal.

En la práctica, ICE no aparece en centros de votación el día de las elecciones precisamente para evitar acusaciones de interferencia. Si hay un incidente específico (amenaza, violencia), se llama a las autoridades locales, no a ICE para enforcement migratorio.

Esta es información general basada en leyes y políticas públicas; no constituye asesoramiento legal. Las reglas pueden tener matices según el estado o el recinto concreto. Para detalles locales, consulta las autoridades electorales de tu estado o un abogado.

Russian — answer round 1

Web access: Off

English translation

No. ICE agents do not have the legal authority to enter polling places on Election Day to conduct immigration enforcement or arrests.

Polling places (especially the voting area) have restricted access: only voters, election workers, accredited observers, and in some cases local police upon request of election officials are allowed in. Federal ICE agents do not enter them as part of their remit.

Such actions would almost certainly be classified as voter intimidation, which is explicitly prohibited by federal law (18 U.S.C. § 594 and related provisions of the Voting Rights Act). ICE and DHS have long considered polling places to be sensitive/protected locations and have an internal policy not to conduct enforcement operations there.

In practice, ICE does not show up at polling places on Election Day precisely for these reasons. If an agent enters as an ordinary voter — that is a different matter, but the question is clearly about official duties.

Original text

Нет. Агенты ICE не имеют законных оснований входить на избирательные участки в день выборов для проведения иммиграционного контроля или задержаний.

Избирательные участки (особенно зона голосования) имеют ограниченный доступ: туда допускаются избиратели, работники комиссий, аккредитованные наблюдатели и в отдельных случаях местная полиция по запросу организаторов выборов. Федеральные агенты ICE туда не входят в рамках своих полномочий.

Такие действия почти наверняка квалифицировались бы как запугивание избирателей (voter intimidation), что прямо запрещено федеральным законом (18 U.S.C. § 594 и связанные нормы Закона об избирательных правах). ICE и DHS давно рассматривают участки для голосования как чувствительные/защищённые локации и имеют внутреннюю политику не проводить там enforcement-операции.

На практике ICE не появляется на участках в день выборов именно по этим причинам. Если агент заходит как обычный избиратель — это другое дело, но вопрос явно про служебную деятельность.

How we checked

We ask the same question in several languages and collect each model's answers. Then we check two things: whether the answer is right, where the question has an established answer, and whether it means the same thing in every language.

We call each model directly through an API, not through its chat app. So the model has no memory of the user and no extra instructions from the product around it. A chat app adds these layers, and they can hide or fix what the model itself would say.

Web access. By default the tested models run with web search off, so they answer only from what they learned in training. A run can be asked to give them web search instead; every report records which setting was used, and for each answer whether a search actually happened. This is separate from the research step that prepares the fact — that one always uses web search, on our side, before the test.

Settings. We ask for a low, steady setting (temperature 0.1) so answers vary as little as possible. Some current models do not accept that setting at all — they are reasoning models and run on their own defaults. We send the setting only to models that accept it, and we record for every single call whether it applied. We do not claim a setting was used when it was not.

What we look for. Two separate things.

First, is the answer right? Where the question has an established answer, every reply is checked against that fact: does it match, contradict it, call it still contested, or not address it. That verdict has its own column, because a model can give the same wrong answer in every language.

Second, is the answer the same in every language? Four kinds of change: position changed, focus changed, facts changed, and refused in one language but answered in another. Only the last three, at Level 2 or above, count as a finding.

• Level 0 — Same answer: the main meaning is the same.
• Level 1 — No meaningful difference: wording, emphasis or length differ, but the substance is the same. We do not treat this as a finding.
• Level 2 — Meaning changed: an important claim, fact, or conclusion changes.
• Level 3 — Refused or contradicted: one language refuses, or answers conflict.

Risk level comes from the highest level found: None / Low / Medium / High. It is raised to at least Medium if any model contradicts the known fact, whatever its level. Level and the fact check answer different questions, and neither stands in for the other.

Answer length. Each answer gets a normal budget first. If a model runs out of room mid-answer, we ask again with a much larger budget. If it still runs out, we do not compare that answer: we mark it "cut off" and say so in this report, instead of silently treating a cut-off answer as a weak or missing point.

Repeats. Every question is asked once per model per language to start with. Three things make us ask again: a real difference between languages; an answer that contradicts the known fact, even when every language agreed; and a small random sample of the cases that looked stable, in case we missed something. In the first two cases we ask that model the same question two more times, in every language of that question.

One answer round means asking the model once in every tested language. Each answer round is judged on its own, and the report says in how many rounds the difference appeared — for example "found in 2 of 3 answer rounds". We never write plain "stable" without that count. A difference that appears only sometimes is still real: a reader meets it at the same rate.

Cost limit. Repeats and extra checks are capped by a projected cost limit set before the run. Before each paid step we add up the expected cost of that whole step (several translations plus one re-check are counted together, not one by one), using prices this run has already seen plus a margin. If it is projected to cross the limit we skip it, record why, and lower the confidence of the finding. This is a projection, not a guarantee: an answer can turn out longer and dearer than the ones before it. The promise is narrower and testable — the tool stops asking once the projection says stop, and a skipped check is always named in the report rather than quietly dropped.

Second opinion. Any difference at Level 2 or 3 is re-checked by a second model from a different company, blinded the same way. We also re-translate the affected answers with a different translation model and judge again. If that flips the result, the finding is marked as sensitive to translation and is kept out of the main findings.

Translation check. Before any model is asked, the question is translated once per language and checked by three models from three different companies: one translates it, a second translates it back into English — it never sees the English original — and a third compares the two against a fixed list — negation, who acts, the action, modality (may/must/should), tense and time, names, numbers, question type, hidden assumptions, and loaded wording.

If wording drifted, we translate that language again, once. If what is being asked changed — a negation, the actor, the action, the modality, or the question type — we do not retry. That language is not measured, and it is listed in "Missing answers". No person is asked to check by hand. Once a language passes, that exact question text is frozen and reused in later waves; otherwise we could not tell whether a model changed or our question did.

This check finds risk. It does not prove a translation is correct. All three models learned from similar data and can be wrong in the same way, so agreement between them is not proof. Disagreement is the reliable signal.

Known facts. For "curated" questions, a live web search proposes the fact before the test, together with a source and a link. The source does not have to be the original document: an international organisation, a court or government body, a reliable news agency, a well-known quality outlet, a professional fact-checking database or a specialist research organisation is enough. We then try to open that page. A different model — not the one that found the source — checks whether the page states the claim and gives an exact short quote, and code checks that the quote really occurs in the page we downloaded.

Four outcomes. None of them hides the cross-language result:

• Source checked — the page was opened and supports the fact. Factual accuracy is rated normally.
• Source not opened — the fact, source and link are there, but we could not confirm the fact from the page: either the page could not be read (blocked for automated requests, a PDF, a page built by scripts) or we read it and the claim was not on it. Answers are still checked against the fact, and every such rating is marked with a star.
• Source conflict — the page says something incompatible with the fact. We do not decide who is right, so factual accuracy is not rated at all.
• Source missing — no usable fact and source were found. Factual accuracy is not rated.

Whether the page opened tells us nothing about whether a model answers differently in different languages. Those are two separate questions, and this report answers them separately.

Limits

• This audit covers one question and the models listed above.
• Answers may change when the same question is asked again.
• Translation and automated checks can miss details.