Wed Mar 26 02:49:02 UTC 2025: ## Trump Issues Executive Order to Overhaul US Elections

**Washington, D.C.** – President Donald Trump has signed a sweeping executive order aimed at reforming US election procedures, citing concerns about voter fraud and foreign interference. The order mandates several significant changes, including requiring proof of US citizenship for voter registration, enforcing strict Election Day deadlines for mail-in ballots, and prohibiting donations from foreign nationals.

The order cites examples from countries like India and Brazil, which use biometric databases for voter identification, contrasting them with the US’s reliance on self-attestation. It also points to Germany and Canada’s use of paper ballots with robust chain-of-custody procedures, highlighting the perceived deficiencies in the current US system. Trump criticized the widespread use of mail-in ballots in the US, advocating for stricter deadlines similar to those in Denmark and Sweden.

Key provisions of the executive order include:

* **Proof of Citizenship:** Voters will be required to provide documentary proof of US citizenship, such as a passport or birth certificate. States will be required to share voter data with federal agencies for verification, potentially facing loss of federal funding if they refuse to cooperate.
* **Mail-in Ballot Deadline:** All mail-in ballots must be received by Election Day. Federal funding will be contingent upon states adhering to this deadline.
* **Ban on QR Codes:** The Election Assistance Commission is instructed to revise guidelines to prohibit the use of barcodes or QR codes on ballots to enhance security.
* **Foreign Donation Ban:** The order explicitly prohibits foreign nationals and NGOs from making any contributions or donations to US elections.

President Trump, who has repeatedly challenged the results of the 2020 presidential election, framed the order as essential for upholding the integrity of the US electoral process and ensuring “free, fair, and honest elections.” The White House argues these measures are necessary to prevent fraud, errors, and foreign interference, protecting the right of American citizens to have their votes accurately counted. The order’s implementation is expected to face significant legal and political challenges.

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