Criticism of Voter ID Laws
Critics of voter identification policies argue that they disproportionately impact certain groups, including people of color, elderly citizens, and students. Research conducted by the nonprofit Voteriders shows that citizens of color are nearly four times more likely than white citizens not to possess a current government-issued photo ID. The same study found that around 34.5 million Americans either lack a driver’s license or state-issued ID, or hold one that does not accurately reflect their current name or address. Many of these individuals face obstacles such as economic limitations, bureaucratic delays, and general confusion over voter requirements, which discourage them from updating or obtaining valid identification.
Previous Executive Order and Legal Battles
Saturday’s announcement follows a March 2025 Executive Order in which Trump instructed the Election Assistance Commission to require passports or other official proof of U.S. citizenship when registering to vote. That order was based on his false claim that foreign nationals were being allowed to participate in American elections. It directed election officials to “enforce the Federal prohibition on foreign nationals voting in Federal elections.”
The order quickly sparked legal opposition, with 19 states filing lawsuits accusing Trump of trying to seize control of elections in violation of the Constitution. Several judges have already struck down large portions of that order.
U.S. District Judge Denise J. Casper issued a preliminary injunction against the order in June, ruling that it “violates the Constitution” and “interferes with States’ inherent sovereignty and their constitutional power to regulate the time, place, and manner of federal elections.”
Trump’s Voter ID Push Faces Legal Uncertainty
Trump’s announcement signals his determination to implement strict voter ID and voting rules nationwide, but constitutional limitations and ongoing lawsuits suggest his plans will face major obstacles. As with his earlier attempts, the courts will play a decisive role in determining whether these executive orders can be enforced.
