President Donald Trump has signed a sweeping executive order that aims to reshape the way federal elections are conducted in the United States. Titled “Preserving and Protecting the Integrity of American Elections,“ the directive introduces new nationwide requirements for voter registration and vote counting. The move has stirred both support and controversy, with state officials, advocacy groups, and legal experts responding quickly.
Proof of Citizenship Now Required for Federal Voter Registration
One of the most significant changes in the executive order is the requirement for voters to provide documentary proof of U.S. citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections. Under the new policy, acceptable forms of identification include a U.S. passport, a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card that indicates citizenship, or a government-issued military ID that confirms citizenship status.
The executive order directs the Election Assistance Commission (EAC) to revise the national mail voter registration form accordingly. This represents a dramatic shift from the current federal registration process, which typically relies on individuals attesting to their citizenship under penalty of perjury without having to submit documentation.
Supporters of the change argue it is necessary to prevent non-citizens from voting and to enhance public confidence in the electoral system. However, critics, including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), warn that the requirement could disproportionately impact naturalized citizens, low-income Americans, seniors, and rural voters who may not have easy access to the required documents.
Ballots Must Arrive by Election Day
The executive order also standardizes the ballot deadline for all federal elections. Under the new rules, only mail-in ballots received by Election Day will be counted. This provision aims to address concerns over delayed ballot counting and ensure timely election results nationwide.
While some states already enforce similar deadlines, others have previously accepted ballots postmarked by Election Day but received shortly after. This new uniform rule will require several states to adjust their procedures—and potentially their laws—to remain eligible for federal funding.
Opponents say the measure could disenfranchise voters who rely on mail-in voting, especially in rural areas or among overseas military personnel, where postal delays are more common. Supporters counter that a fixed deadline is a necessary step toward election consistency and security.
