Right-wing activist James O’Keefe charged with unlawful voting, identity theft

Conservative influencer James O’Keefe was charged in Minnesota Wednesday after he and fellow right-leaning commentator Cam Higby misrepresented themselves using registered voters’ names at polling places during the state’s primary election earlier this year. 

Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty announced during a press conference the two men are facing felony unlawful voting and identity fraud charges.

“Elections are the bedrock of democracy and their protection is one of our highest priorities,” Moriarty said in a statement. “Individuals engaging in unlawful conduct related to our elections will be held accountable.”

On the state’s Aug. 11 primary election day, O’Keefe and Higby donned mock “Muslim attire,” spoke in fake accents at Minnesota polling places. O’Keefe and Higby began the state’s unregistered voter vouching process under fake names but did not ultimately sign this oath or cast a vote, according to the county attorney. 

The two men filmed their interactions and were attempting to showcase alleged weaknesses associated with a state law that permits Minnesota voters........

© The Hill