Hispanic Federation Defends the Rights of Voters Being able to Vote-By-Mail
New York, NY – Today, President Donald Trump announced his intention to sign an executive order that would eliminate the use of mail-in ballots and voting machines for the 2026 midterm elections. The proposed action threatens to increase barriers to the ballot and could disenfranchise over 40 million voters that previously voted by mail in the 2024 elections. Below is a statement from Jessica Orozco Guttlein, Senior Vice President of Policy and Communications.
“President Trump’s proposal to eliminate mail-in ballots is only the latest proposed policy to block voters from participation in the elections. Vote by mail is one of the most effective tools citizens have to strengthen our democracy and ensure Americans are able to exercise their right to make their voice heard on Election Day. If the ban on mail-in ballots were to move forward the way it is being discussed, then millions of voters across the nation could lose access to the ballot box. Such unilateral action would represent an unconstitutional overreach by the federal government into state electoral operations. Any attempts to suppress or eliminate vote-by-mail only serves to go against centuries of electoral law that has allowed states such as Utah, Nevada, and Vermont to hold elections by mail for decades without any issues.
Methods that increase voter participation should be protected, as democracy thrives when more citizens participate. The reality is that vote-by-mail is safe and secure – it is a lifeline for millions of voters, including those who cannot always access polling places on Election Day. It provides a safe and secure way to access the ballot box for those unable to change work schedules, health concerns, disabilities, limited access to transportation, and caregivers.
Hispanic Federation calls on state legislatures across the country to protect their right to provide mail-in ballots to voters in their jurisdictions. Similarly, members of Congress, many of whom were elected to office in large part by mail-in ballots, need to pass legislation that enshrines the rights of voters and protects them from encroachment by the federal government.”
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About Hispanic Federation
Hispanic Federation (HF) is a nonprofit membership and advocacy organization, founded in 1990, committed to empowering and advancing the Hispanic community, with a focus on low-income, marginalized, and immigrant Latinos. With programs in 40 states, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the District of Columbia, HF’s focus areas include immigration, economic empowerment, civic engagement, disaster relief, philanthropy, education, health, and the environment. HF also maintains ongoing public education campaigns and meets the organizational development needs of its member agencies through grant-making and capacity-building assistance.
