President Donald Trump has announced plans to issue an executive order mandating voter identification for “every single vote,” with no exceptions. “Voter I.D. Must Be Part of Every Single Vote. NO EXCEPTIONS! I Will Be Doing An Executive Order To That End!!!” Trump stated on Truth Social. The proposal also includes eliminating mail-in voting, allowing only limited exceptions for individuals who are “very ill” or part of the military.
Trump previously pledged to end mail-in ballots and voting machines ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, though federal election administration operates at the state level, raising questions about the constitutional authority of such a move. The new plan would expand existing requirements, including proof of citizenship for voter registration and paper ballots delivered by Election Day.
The announcement comes as Trump accelerates efforts to reshape the electoral system independently of congressional Republicans, bypassing the proposed Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act (SAVE Act). Critics argue the measures could disenfranchise millions, particularly in states where voting without photo identification is currently permitted.
