Undercover Video Raises Legal Concerns in Minnesota

An undercover video involving activists could lead to legal consequences in Minnesota. The individuals involved posed as voters during the primary election.

Impersonation Grounds

Members formerly associated with Project Veritas, now known as the Citizen Justice League, claimed they were testing the state’s voter voucher law. Their video, viewed over 7 million times, suggests they may have broken the law.

In the footage, the activists dressed in what they described as “Muslim costumes,” adopted fake accents, and pretended to be Minnesota residents vouching for others.

Voter Voucher Law Explained

Minnesota’s voucher law is designed to aid new residents in voting. It permits a registered voter to vouch for someone’s residency. Importantly, impersonating real voters is prohibited by law.

In the video, one man used the false identity of William Pomeranz when interacting with election officials. CBS News Minnesota reached out to the real Pomeranz, who received unsettling messages on Election Day.

“I had a student show me online claims about my identity being misused. It was shocking when I saw it on Friday,” Pomeranz shared.

Voting Process Reviewed

While the activists did not attempt illegal voting, Pomeranz praised the poll workers for their vigilance.

“Thanks to the poll workers for reporting it afterward. I managed to vote that evening without any issues. To me, the voting system worked,” he stated.

The individual in the video who posed as Pomeranz was identified as James O’Keefe. His actions may lead to legal trouble.

Legal Implications

According to David Schultz, a constitutional law professor at Hamline University, “It’s illegal in Minnesota to impersonate another voter, and this seems to be what O’Keefe did.” Schultz, Pomeranz, and Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon confirmed that the system enacted appropriate safeguards.

Simon remarked, “The law prohibits impersonating registered voters, which is what they appear to have done.” A felony conviction for voter impersonation carries up to seven years in prison and fines up to $20,000.

Background on Project Veritas

Project Veritas, known for its covert videos, often targets news outlets, unions, and Democratic groups. Critics argue the editing of videos often removes crucial context. James O’Keefe, the founder, was removed from leadership in 2023 due to financial misconduct allegations.

CBS News Minnesota has contacted both Project Veritas and Citizen Justice League for comments and awaits their response.