Congressional Leaders Urge Investigation into Trump Administration's Voter Suppression Tactics

Congressman Marc Veasey and his fellow Texas Representatives have called on Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton to investigate the Trump Administration's attempts to suppress the vote in the midst of the global pandemic. The letter, co-signed by 10 other Representatives, follows the President's public admission to opposing the U.S. Postal Service's funding request for $25 billion as part of the coronavirus legislation pending in Congress.

The move comes as the Trump Administration has openly attempted to disenfranchise voters by degrading the U.S. Postal Service, which is essential for delivering mail-in ballots. The Representatives argue that the President's actions threaten the integrity of the elections and the voting rights of Americans.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Trump Administration's attempts to dismantle the U.S. Postal Service and prevent Texans from exercising their right to vote are a blatant tactic of voter suppression.
  • The President's opposition to providing the Postal Service with the funding necessary to carry out its universal service mission and other legal obligations raises serious concern.
  • The Postal Service has been the primary method for Americans to complete their Census forms, register to vote, and cast their ballots in primary elections throughout the coronavirus pandemic.
  • The Representatives urge Attorney General Paxton to open an investigation into the President's attempts to obstruct the mail and suppress the vote.
  • The move is seen as a critical step in safeguarding Texans' right to vote and holding the Trump Administration accountable for their actions.

Statistics:

  • The U.S. Postal Service has requested $25 billion in funding to continue meeting delivery standards during the global pandemic.
  • The President's opposition to providing the Postal Service with emergency funding has led to the implementation of cost-saving measures that could degrade delivery standards and slow the mail.
  • The Postal Service has been the primary method for Americans to complete their Census forms, register to vote, and cast their ballots in primary elections throughout the pandemic.
  • The letter was co-signed by 11 members of Congress, including Congressman Marc Veasey, and 10 other Texas Representatives.

Sources:

  • Congressman Marc Veasey (TX-33), founder and co-chair of the Congressional Voting Rights Caucus.
  • Letter to Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, signed by Congressman Marc Veasey and 10 other Representatives.
  • News release from the office of Congressman Marc Veasey (TX-33).