Donald Trump announced plans to issue an executive order requiring voter identification for all U.S. elections, despite the Constitution granting states — not the president — authority over election regulations. Legal experts say such an order would almost certainly face court challenges as unconstitutional.
Trump also said he intends to restrict mail-in voting, allowing it only for military personnel and those with serious illnesses. This proposal contrasts with current practices across many states, where voting by mail is widely used and proven secure. In 2024, more than a dozen states recorded over 30% of ballots cast by mail, including Utah, where over 90% of votes were mailed and overseen by Republican officials.
Currently, 36 states require or request identification at polling places, while others use different forms of verification. Studies show voter fraud is extremely rare, but strict voter ID rules disproportionately affect seniors, minorities, low-income citizens, students, and people with disabilities. According to estimates, up to 11% of eligible voters lack the type of identification required under such laws.
Trump’s push follows earlier efforts to tighten voting rules. A federal judge blocked a June 2025 attempt to require proof of citizenship to vote, ruling it risked disenfranchising millions who lack passports, birth certificates, or updated legal documents. If enforced, similar measures could affect tens of millions of Americans — particularly first-time voters or those updating registrations.