LOS ANGELES — Federal prosecutors announced Friday that they have opened multiple election fraud investigations in California, following public allegations of irregularities in the state's recent primary elections.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli said his office in the Central District of California is conducting the probes in coordination with the FBI's Los Angeles office. A federal prosecutor was also present at a Los Angeles ballot processing center, officials confirmed.
The announcement came days after President Donald Trump, without providing evidence, claimed widespread cheating in California's June 2 primary elections, particularly citing delays in ballot counting in races including the Los Angeles mayoral contest.
Essayli stated on X that the investigations are underway but did not disclose specific details, targets or evidence gathered so far. “The Department of Justice and FBI have multiple election fraud investigations underway,” he wrote.
California state officials pushed back against the claims. Attorney General Rob Bonta and other Democratic leaders described the federal moves as politically motivated and said the state's election processes are secure and transparent. Details of any specific allegations under investigation remain unclear.
The probes focus on the Los Angeles area amid ongoing ballot tabulation. Election experts noted that while delays in counting mail-in ballots are common in California, no widespread fraud has been substantiated.
The development has heightened tensions between the Trump administration and California officials. State leaders have said they are monitoring federal activity closely.
As of Monday, no charges have been filed in connection with the newly announced investigations. Further updates are expected as the probes continue, with primary certification deadlines approaching in July.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office declined additional comment beyond confirming the existence of the investigations.
