NAACP Celebrates Dismissal of DOJ Lawsuit Demanding Unlawful Disclosure of Private Voter Data

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 18, 2026

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WASHINGTON - The NAACP celebrates a significant victory after the United States District Court for the District of Minnesota dismissed a Justice Department lawsuit demanding the unlawful disclosure of private voter information.

The NAACP along with Cynthia Wilson, President of the Minneapolis Branch of the NAACP, joined the defense as intervenors to prevent the federal government from forcing Minnesota to turn over the entirety of its voter registration list. The lawsuit sought unredacted voter lists containing highly sensitive private data, including voters' full names, dates of birth, residential addresses, partial Social Security numbers, and driver's license numbers.

This intervention is part of a broader effort by the NAACP to challenge federal action across 30 states and Washington, D.C., to obtain private voter list for the purpose of advancing immigration enforcement and broader executive branch objectives rather than legitimate voting rights enforcement.

"We intervened in this case to ensure our communities were defended against unlawful intrusion, and we stand proud alongside our partners and all citizens of Minnesota, in securing the full dismissal of this lawsuit." said Kristen Clarke, General Counsel of the NAACP.

The NAACP remains steadfast in its mission to protect democratic processes, eliminate racial disparities, and safeguard equal rights under the law. For more information on our work to defend democracy, visit naacp.org.

About NAACP

The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund - also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.