A controversial draft executive order is making the rounds among anti-voting groups. This order aims to give President Trump unusual control over the voting process in the U.S., and some say it is backed by the White House.
The order, dated April 12, 2025, was leaked to Democracy Docket by Peter Ticktin, an ally of Trump and a key player in this initiative. Titled “Establishing Security, Integrity, and Transparency for United States Elections with Protections Against Foreign Interference,” it has sparked discussions and worries among various groups.
A social media account linked to the Maryland chapter of the Election Integrity Network, led by Trump supporter Cleta Mitchell, first shared this version last spring. The Washington Post also reported on an earlier draft, noting that it points fingers at China for interference in the 2020 elections, a claim not found in Ticktin’s version.
Legal experts and lawyers have weighed in, calling the idea of allowing the president to control elections unconstitutional. Trump’s response to the draft was dismissive; he stated he had “never heard about it.”
The draft itself is flawed, referencing sections of laws that don’t exist. For instance, it incorrectly cites actions under the National Emergencies Act related to emergency powers that aren’t actually conferred by the mentioned laws.
Ticktin, a longtime acquaintance of Trump, is also the lawyer for Tina Peters, a former Colorado county clerk currently serving time for her role in a voting system breach. She promoted unfounded claims of widespread voter fraud.
White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson reinforced Trump’s claim of ignorance regarding the draft order. In an unexpected twist, she included a video link where a PBS reporter questioned Trump about a potential national emergency related to elections.
As this unfolds, experts worry about the long-term implications for democracy in the United States. Many view moves like this as steps towards undermining electoral integrity and citizen trust. In recent surveys, around 65% of Americans expressed concern over election security, highlighting how critical it is to address these fears without resorting to measures that could threaten the democratic process.
Legally, any executive order that attempts to assume such powers would face significant challenges. Historical context also adds weight here; similar attempts in the past have been swiftly shot down by courts, emphasizing the endurance of democratic principles.
As discussions continue, it’s crucial for citizens to stay informed and engaged, reflecting on the importance of transparency and fairness in elections.
