Trump orders major overhaul of US elections, mandates citizenship proof

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday signed an executive order mandating sweeping changes to the US election process, including requiring documentary proof of citizenship for voter registration and ensuring that all ballots are received by election day. The new requirements are expected to face immediate legal challenges.

The order asserted that the US has failed “to enforce basic and necessary election protections” and urged states to collaborate with federal agencies to share voter lists and prosecute election-related crimes. It also warned that states where election officials fail to comply may face cuts in federal funding, news agency AP reported.

The sweeping order amends the federal voter registration form to mandate proof of citizenship, such as a passport, for eligibility to vote in federal elections. Additionally, the order also prohibits states from accepting mail-in ballots received after election day, regardless of the posted date.

This action aligns with Trump’s persistent claims of election irregularities and fraud, especially regarding mail-in voting, which he has repeatedly criticised despite minimal evidence of documented fraud. The order’s proof of citizenship requirement reflects the objectives of the Republican-backed Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act.

While signing the order on Tuesday, Trump referred to the alleged election fraud, and said, “this will end it, hopefully”.

Republican lawmakers have voiced support for the order, asserting its necessity in restoring public confidence in election integrity. Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger noted that the “order ensures that only American citizens decide American elections”. However, voting rights organisations and Democrats have condemned the order, expressing concerns about potential voter disenfranchisement.

A 2023 report indicated that an estimated 9 per cent of eligible US citizens, or 21.3 million people, lack readily available proof of citizenship. Also, currently, 18 states and Puerto Rico accept mailed ballots received after Election Day as long as they are postmarked on or before that date.

Concerns have also been raised regarding potential registration issues for married women whose names have changed since their birth certificates were issued.

Colorado’s Democratic Secretary of State, Jena Griswold, labelled the order an “unlawful” weaponization of the federal government, accusing Trump of attempting to suppress voter turnout.

The order is expected to face legal challenges, as the Constitution grants states the primary authority over election processes, and explicitly empowers states to determine the “times, places, and manner” of elections, although the Congress has the power to regulate voting.