Judge Blocks Trump Executive Order on Elections
A federal judge has permanently blocked the Trump administration’s executive order regarding election processes. This order aimed to impose documentary proof of citizenship for voter registration.
U.S. District Court Judge Denise Casper in Boston made the ruling. Previously, she issued a temporary injunction against similar efforts. This decision marks a permanent ban on the proposed changes.
Judge Casper concluded that states and Congress have constitutional authority over elections. Trump’s requirements defied the separation of powers as established. The President holds no specific election powers under the Constitution.
Proposed Changes in Trump’s Order
Among the proposed changes were mandates for documentary proof of citizenship upon voter registration. It also had provisions to reject mail ballots post-Election Day even if postmarked before. States were threatened with withheld federal grants for non-compliance, including funds for election security.
Democratic Response
New York Attorney General Letitia James expressed gratitude to the court for blocking the perceived unconstitutional attempt to control elections. She reaffirmed her commitment to defending voting rights.
Continued Legal Challenges
California Attorney General Rob Bonta stated the ruling confirmed the states’ and Congress’s role in setting election rules. He noted Trump’s ongoing challenges on voting rights and elections.
Trump’s administration may appeal the ruling. A White House spokeswoman defended the executive order as a lawful protection of election integrity.
Ongoing Efforts and Legislative Measures
Trump pursues election changes through Congress, including the creation of a national voter list. The SAVE America Act is among proposed legislation but faces obstacles in the Senate.
Citizenship Proof Challenges
A recent study estimated that 21.3 million eligible voters lack easy access to citizenship-proof documents. Only half of Americans own a passport, and processing times for other documents can be lengthy and costly.
Historical cases reveal the complexity of enforcing citizenship proof, with past laws blocking thousands of eligible voters. Noncitizen voting remains rare despite narratives suggesting otherwise. The federal voter registration form already includes criminal penalties for false citizenship claims.
Future Rulings Expected
The U.S. Supreme Court may soon rule on mail ballots’ deadlines, potentially impacting 14 states with current grace periods.