by Coldwater, KS — The mayor of Coldwater, Joe Ceballos, stepped down from office Monday following national attention over felony election fraud charges filed against him. His resignation marks a significant shift for the southwest Kansas town, which is now navigating both legal uncertainty and a leadership transition.
Mayor Joe Ceballos Steps Down
The Coldwater City Council confirmed it had accepted Ceballos’ resignation, emphasizing continuity and stability for residents.
In an official statement, the council said, “We will continue with the daily work of the city ensuring that all services and operations move forward without interruption.”
The announcement underscored the city’s priority of keeping residents informed during a moment of unexpected change.
Ceballos, a legal permanent resident with a green card, had recently secured his second term as mayor. His reelection came just one day before Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach revealed at a November news conference that Ceballos had been arrested on multiple felony counts related to voting illegally.
Britt Lenertz Sworn In as New Mayor
Following the resignation, the city council acted quickly to fill the leadership gap.
Britt Lenertz, who served as president of the council, was sworn in as the town’s new mayor. She confirmed she will serve out the remainder of Ceballos’ term, providing continuity for the community.
Lenertz now steps into the role at a time when Coldwater is balancing routine municipal operations with heightened public scrutiny.
Details of the Charges Against Ceballos
While Ceballos has maintained legal residency in the United States, the Kansas Attorney General’s Office alleges he was not eligible to vote or hold public office because he is not a U.S. citizen.
According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Ceballos did not apply for citizenship until February — years after participating in elections.
Assistant Homeland Security Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated that Ceballos will be “placed in removal proceedings” if convicted on the felony charges.
The case marks one of the highest-profile election-related prosecutions in Kansas in recent years, drawing national news coverage and spotlighting federal–state cooperation in election law enforcement.
Community Reaction and What Comes Next
Coldwater residents have expressed a mix of shock, concern, and hope for stability as the legal process moves forward.
City officials emphasized that municipal services will continue operating normally, despite the abrupt change in leadership.
Questions remain about how long the legal proceedings may take and what the potential immigration consequences could be for Ceballos if prosecutors secure a conviction.
Cautionary Message on Election Eligibility
Cases like this highlight the importance of clearly understanding eligibility requirements for voting and holding office in the United States.
Local and federal authorities have increasingly stressed the need for accurate documentation to avoid unintentional violations — or deliberate fraud — in election participation.
Residents of Coldwater are expected to receive additional updates as the case progresses and as Lenertz settles into her role as mayor.
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