Donald Trump is laying the groundwork to challenge the legitimacy of a potential loss in the upcoming election by accusing the opposition of cheating. This is a tactic he’s used before, particularly in the 2020 election, where his baseless claims of voter fraud led to the Capitol insurrection.
On the 2024 campaign trail, Trump has similarly refused to commit to accepting the election results, suggesting that the fairness of the election will determine his response. His comments have escalated in recent weeks, as he continues to question the integrity of the electoral process.
At a rally in Pennsylvania, Trump claimed that if the election were fair, he wouldn’t need to campaign, accusing cities like Philadelphia, Detroit, and Atlanta of being “out of control” with cheating. He suggested that only a divine figure like God could ensure a fair election, adding that he needed a landslide victory to counteract alleged fraud.
Despite these claims, election officials and experts across the political spectrum have confirmed that there is no substantial evidence of widespread voter fraud in the 2020 election.
Donald Trump
Despite this lack of evidence, Republicans have responded to Trump’s rhetoric by filing over 100 lawsuits challenging various aspects of the electoral system. The Republican National Convention has announced an extensive election integrity program, further fueling concerns.
However, Trump remains the primary driver of election denial within the party. He continues to make baseless claims about voter fraud, such as accusing the Biden administration of bringing in criminals from Venezuela to influence the election.
Trump has also used social media to spread fears about voter fraud, particularly through mail-in voting, which he has long criticized. In a post on Truth Social, he accused Democrats of preparing to cheat by seeking votes from Americans overseas and warned that anyone voting illegally would face jail time.
His warnings of fraud have become a central theme in his speeches, as he rallies law enforcement and supporters to “watch” for irregularities in the upcoming election.
Trump’s concerns over election security have even influenced policy discussions in Washington. A short-term spending bill passed by Congress to prevent a government shutdown was initially tied to a proposal requiring proof of citizenship to vote, a measure inspired by Trump.
Although voting by non-citizens is already illegal, Trump’s demands for stricter election security continue to shape Republican policy. House Speaker Mike Johnson assured that Trump’s concerns were considered, showing the extent of his influence over the party’s approach to election integrity.
