President Trump signed an executive order requiring proof of citizenship for voting in federal elections

President Donald Trump signed an executive order yesterday aimed at strengthening proof of citizenship requirements for voting in federal elections.

(CNN)- In a move that has sparked debate, President Donald Trump signed an executive order yesterday aimed at strengthening proof of citizenship requirements for voting in federal elections. The order would mandate that voters provide additional documentation proving U.S. citizenship before casting their ballots.

During a recent interview, Trump commented, “We should go to voter ID and just one other thing, proof of a thing called citizenship in the United States. Wouldn’t that be nice?” The executive order faces several legal challenges, including a Supreme Court ruling which determined that a generic voter registration form is sufficient for most voters. Additionally, state and local governments, not the federal government, are responsible for running elections, creating further hurdles for Trump’s proposal.

Despite the challenges, the order seeks to leverage federal funding threats to encourage state compliance with the new requirements. Vivek Ramaswamy, a Trump ally, praised the order, stating, “I think it’s a great executive order. It makes all the sense in the world.”

However, critics argue that the new rules could disenfranchise legitimate voters, especially those who may have trouble providing the necessary documentation. Luke Broadwater, a reporter and author, highlighted concerns from Democrats who believe the move could suppress voter turnout. “Fewer people will be able to get to the polls,” he said.

Under the executive order, voters would need to show proof of citizenship, which could include a passport, military ID, or qualifying state or federal photo ID. For those without such documents, proof must comply with the REAL ID Act of 2005. Acceptable forms of documentation could include a birth certificate with a raised seal, certificates of naturalization or citizenship, or a consular report for those born abroad. Additionally, voters who have changed their name might need to provide extra documentation, such as a marriage license.

Trump defended the order, asking, “How simple does that sound?”