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One thing we can always count on with Donald Trump is this: if he can’t win by the rules, he will change them. He bends the law, pressures courts, and coerces his GOP in Congress without regard for consequences, as long as power remains in his hands.
As his political prospects grow dimmer, his tactics grow more dangerous. The old saying “if you can’t beat them, join them” doesn’t apply to Trump. For him, if you can’t beat them, change the rules, cheat, push down anyone who gets in your way.
This week, Republicans passed a voter suppression bill called the SAVE Act (Safeguard American Voter Eligibility). The name is meant to mislead. The bill only safeguards the voting rights of those who vote for Trump. We will not be duped. We see what is going on. Trump and the GOP want to make voting harder. We will remember those who voted for this bill, especially this November—if we are still allowed to vote.
The SAVE Act would require Americans to present a passport, birth certificate, or other proof of citizenship to register to vote in federal elections. An estimated 21 million Americans do not have these documents readily available. The burden falls hardest on women and LGBTQ+ people who have changed their names, as well as working-class Americans who cannot easily obtain replacement documents. Many will be purged from the rolls. When voting becomes harder, people don’t vote, and that’s the Act’s goal.
This is exactly what Trump wants. His agenda is deeply unpopular among women, and the gender gap continues to widen. He knows they won’t support him, so instead of changing his policies, he works to keep them home on Election Day.
The same strategy targets communities of color. Lawful citizens are intimidated by immigration raids, scare tactics, and threats of ICE presence near polling places. Trump is losing support among Hispanic Americans. By instilling fear, he knows they will stay home.
Now he wants to nationalize elections, consolidating power so the rules are “fair” only when they benefit him. This is the playbook of authoritarian leaders. It is a direct assault on the Constitution and a dangerous step away from democracy.
But we will not go quietly. Make some noise. Our vote may be in jeopardy, but not our voice. Call your Senators. Tell them to vote NO on the SAVE Act. Everyone has a right to vote, even if they are voting for the opponent. That’s how democracy works.
Join us in Washington, DC on April 14th - 16th for our annual Policy Conference. Make your voice more powerful when you join JAC members from across the country for meetings with top leaders in Congress. Spots are still available. Register now.
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