President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Tuesday aimed at enhancing mail-in voting security by requiring bar codes on ballot envelopes, a move that raises questions about federal authority over state-run elections.
Order Requirements
- The order directs the United States Postal Service (USPS) to provide bar codes to states for placement on mail-in ballot envelopes.
- Federal data will be used to verify voter eligibility.
- States must use these bar codes to ensure ballots are sent to and returned by eligible voters.
Authority and Legal Challenges
- Election administration is largely governed by states, not the federal government, leading to questions about the president's authority.
- Trump acknowledged that a "rogue" federal judge might challenge the order but stated, "I don't see how anybody can challenge it."
Expert Perspectives
- Noncitizen voting in federal elections is already illegal and exceedingly rare.
- Foreigners who cast ballots risk prosecution and deportation if caught.
Background and Context
- Trump has repeatedly and baselessly claimed widespread election fraud.
- He defended his own mail-in vote in a recent Florida special election, citing his presidency.
- The order follows the failure of the "Save America Act" in the Senate, which included proof-of-citizenship requirements.