President Donald Trump issued an executive order Tuesday that calls on federal government resources to help states ensure fair and honest elections.
“Free, fair, and honest elections, unmarred by fraud, errors, or suspicion, are fundamental to maintaining our constitutional Republic,” the order states. “The right of American citizens to have their votes properly counted and tabulated, without illegal dilution, is vital to determining the rightful winner of an election.”
The order says states are primarily responsible for administering the election process, and that the federal government can assist states.
The federal government also has a responsibility to investigate and prosecute those who would interfere with elections, according to the order.
“Above all, elections must be honest and worthy of the public trust,” the order says. “That requires voting methods that produce a voter-verifiable paper record allowing voters to efficiently check their votes to protect against fraud or mistake. Election-integrity standards must be modified accordingly.”
