By John Q. Hosedrinker 
The article details Donald Trump’s ongoing attempts to discredit the electoral process, now specifically targeting both mail-in and early voting methods. Despite previously utilizing these very methods himself and encouraging his supporters to do the same, he is calling for their elimination. Trump is falsely claiming these methods are proof of Democratic cheating, and urging the Justice Department to investigate the 2020 election outcome. These demands come amid record-breaking early voting turnout in several states, including a concerning shift in Republican voter behavior.
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Trump demands ‘no early voting’ in latest threat to upcoming elections as California and New York ballots roll in, which is, to put it mildly, a rather audacious move, especially considering the well-established practices in states like California and New York. The fact that he’s making this demand at a time when ballots are already being cast in these and other states adds a layer of, let’s say, theatrical irony to the whole situation. It’s a classic example of him attempting to dictate something he has absolutely no power over – the states, as always, have the final say when it comes to the logistics of their elections.
This latest pronouncement seems to be a clear attempt to sow seeds of doubt and distrust in the electoral process, which is, of course, a familiar tactic. The underlying strategy here is quite transparent: to potentially delegitimize results that don’t go his way. It’s about setting the stage for claims of fraud and rigged elections, even before the votes are fully tallied. The goal, it seems, is to rally his base and prepare them to question any outcome that doesn’t align with his desired result. This tactic will only make people more motivated to vote and more vigilant in the face of what looks like voter suppression.
The implications of his stance are far-reaching. By calling for an end to early voting, he’s effectively advocating for making it harder for people to exercise their right to vote. This can disproportionately affect working-class individuals, those with limited time or access to transportation, and anyone who might find it difficult to get to the polls on a specific Election Day. It’s a blatant move to suppress the vote, pure and simple, and should be called out for what it is.
The reactions to Trump’s demands have been swift and pointed, as they should be. The sentiment is a resounding “no.” Many people have already cast their ballots, and they’re making it clear that they won’t be swayed by his attempts to undermine the process. It’s almost comical to see him trying to cancel early voting like it’s a subscription, especially when states like California and New York have long-established systems in place. His arguments are falling on deaf ears.
There is a stark contrast between Trump’s rhetoric and the reality of how elections are conducted in the United States. He seems to be forgetting, or perhaps ignoring, the principle of states’ rights, which conservatives often champion. Ironically, it’s the states that are in charge of their own election procedures. To demand a change in election law at the last minute is simply a display of petulance. It’s hard to imagine his demands will gain any traction.
Moreover, his focus on early voting seems particularly misplaced, given that it’s usually the Republican Party that benefits from lower turnout. This would be a self-inflicted wound. The GOP often does well when fewer people vote, so why try to make it even harder to vote? The lack of logic here is almost astounding. Trump seems to be playing a dangerous game, one that could backfire spectacularly.
The comments also reflect a deep frustration with Trump’s attempts to control and manipulate the electoral process. Many see his actions as a desperate attempt to cling to power, regardless of the consequences. They see through the charade and are determined to continue to exercise their right to vote. His accusations of fraud and rigging are, as always, unsubstantiated and designed to divide.
The fact that so many people have already voted early and by mail speaks volumes. It’s a testament to the fact that people are engaged, informed, and determined to participate in the democratic process, regardless of Trump’s demands. Early voting is a widely used and accepted practice, and it’s not going anywhere.
Trump’s stance on early voting is just another example of his attempts to undermine the integrity of elections. The irony is, of course, that his claims of a “rigged” system are often projections of his own intentions. He seems to be constantly accusing others of what he himself is likely to do, a hallmark of his behavior.
The overall sentiment is clear: Trump’s demands are not only unwelcome, they’re ultimately irrelevant. The states will continue to conduct their elections according to their own laws and procedures, and voters will continue to cast their ballots, early and often, if that’s what their state allows. He’s essentially yelling at the sky, a futile exercise that won’t change a thing.