MPAC Applauds Felony Charges Against Right-Wing Influencers and Calls for Accountability for Attempts to Undermine American Muslim Voting Rights

Washington, D.C. | www.mpac.org | October 28, 2026 — The Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC) applauds the felony charges brought against right-wing influencers James O’Keefe and Cam Higby following their alleged attempts to misrepresent their identities at Minnesota polling places during the state’s August primary. 

Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty announced charges of unlawful voting and identity theft, alleging that the men entered multiple polling locations and used the names of registered Minnesota voters to deceive election judges. By disguising themselves in what they called “Muslim garb,” the influencers sought to portray the state’s voter verification process as vulnerable to fraud, using the appearance of Muslim Americans who wear hijab or niqab to suggest that Muslim voters could exploit the system. MPAC commends Minnesota authorities for pursuing accountability and calls for justice to be served.

This stunt weaponizes anti-Muslim prejudice for political gain. By using Muslim religious attire to manufacture suspicion around election integrity, these influencers reinforce the harmful and baseless implication that visibly American Muslims are deceptive or untrustworthy. Their actions come amid a broader political climate in which President Donald Trump and his allies have repeatedly made unsubstantiated claims of election fraud. 

Election security is a legitimate concern, but it must never become a pretext to dehumanize a religious community, spread disinformation, or cast suspicion on eligible voters because of their faith or appearance. As Hennepin County Attorney Moriarty emphasized, the charging decision must be grounded in the law, not the political views of those involved.

As the 2026 midterm elections approach, MPAC warns that stunts like these risk undermining public confidence in elections while making American Muslims feel targeted, unwelcome, or afraid to participate in civic life. The right to vote is fundamental to our democracy, and no American should face suspicion, intimidation, or discrimination because they wear a hijab or niqab. 

We call on public officials, media organizations, and community leaders to reject efforts to weaponize anti-Muslim stereotypes and deter civic participation. Our democracy is strongest when every eligible voter can participate freely, safely, and without fear.