Trump's Election Overhaul Faces Bipartisan Criticism, Legal Challenges

President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at overhauling U.S. election laws, mandating documentary proof of citizenship for voter registration and requiring that all ballots be received by Election Day. This order has been met with significant backlash from election officials and voting rights advocates, who argue it constitutes an unconstitutional federal overreach and threatens to disenfranchise voters. Vermont Secretary of State Sarah Copeland Hanzas and Nevada Secretary of State Cisco Aguilar both criticized the order, emphasizing that election administration is traditionally a state responsibility. Trump’s order, which reflects his ongoing claims of election fraud, could face numerous legal challenges, as many states, including Washington and Arizona, have already indicated intentions to resist compliance. Critics assert that the move is part of a broader effort to manipulate electoral processes in favor of the Republican Party and undermine future elections. The implications for the upcoming 2026 midterms remain uncertain amid anticipated legal battles and pushback from state officials.