California Officials Resist Trump’s Calls to Nationalize Elections
TL/DR –
President Trump’s call for federal control of state elections, specifically in California, has been met with resistance from state officials who are prepared to legally challenge such a move. The California Attorney General and Secretary of State have assured their readiness to resist any federal action that could affect their state’s voting process, arguing that the U.S. Constitution allows states to predominantly determine election procedures. This standoff comes as Trump continues to make baseless allegations of election fraud, and escalates efforts to undermine states’ control of their voting systems, including applying pressure to end mail voting, add proof-of-citizenship requirements for voter registration, and seize election records.
Trump Calls for Nationalization of Elections Met with Resistance
WASHINGTON — California officials have vowed to fight back against President Trump’s calls to nationalize elections, making it clear they’re prepared to secure their state’s voting system.
“If the federal government attempted to take control, we’d instantly go to court and get a restraining order. The U.S. Constitution states that states predominantly determine elections,” said Rob Bonta, California Atty. Gen.
Despite baseless allegations from Trump about fraud in mail-in voting, California officials remain vigilant for any federal action potentially affecting the state’s voting process.
California Secretary of State Shirley Weber reiterated the state’s readiness to combat illegitimate court challenges that aim to undermine the state’s vote, emphasizing that they’ve successfully fended off such threats in the past.
Bonta stressed that his office is ready to swiftly respond to any issues, in constant communication with local election officials. This comes amidst a deterioration of trust between state and federal officials over election cooperation.
Tensions escalated when Trump, without proof, claimed that the 2020 election results were fraudulent, despite multiple independent reviews concluding otherwise.
The Justice Department has also followed up the claims, seizing 2020 ballots in Georgia and suing states for their voter rolls. They’re defending a Trump executive order that aims to end mail voting and add new citizenship requirements for voters, which has been met with lawsuits from several states, including California.
California Democrats have expressed concerns over election interference by the Trump administration. Meanwhile, some Republicans have voiced their disagreement with Trump’s stance, citing constitutional issues.
Despite the escalating tensions, election experts maintain that confidence in the election system is key. They have decried accusations of fraud as baseless and emphasize that all eligible votes should be counted.
With potential interference through the U.S. Postal Service looming, Democrats and state officials are urging voters to vote early and consider using state ballot drop boxes or voting centers.
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