Donald Trump announced that he intends to apply “the closest professional scrutiny” to the upcoming 2024 presidential election and warned that any cheating will face severe legal action if he wins. On Oct. 25, Trump took to Truth Social to emphasize his commitment to ensure the “sanctity” of the 2024 election, describing his intention to deter “rampant cheating and skullduggery” he claims influenced the 2020 results. He signaled his plan to involve legal experts and promised that, if elected, he would pursue anyone committing fraud to the “fullest extent of the Law,” a response that could entail extensive prison sentences.
The post went further with a clear “CEASE & DESIST” warning, extending this legal vigilance beyond the typical suspects of election-related crime. Trump’s deterrence includes donors, lawyers, political operatives, and election officials found to be involved in any form of illegal behavior, underscoring his intent to hold accountable anyone seen as compromising election integrity. Trump’s message implied that the scope of accountability would be wider than ever before, with those engaged in dubious practices facing consequences “at levels, unfortunately, never seen before in our Country.”
Throughout his campaign, Trump has emphasized his commitment to election integrity. His proposals include voter ID laws, stricter regulation of mail-in ballots, increased polling oversight, and harsher penalties for offenses tied to elections. These ideas appear to have public support, as recent polling indicates growing concern about election integrity. A recent Gallup poll found that 84% of American adults now support voter ID laws, up from 80% in 2016, and 79% during the 2022 midterms. Additionally, 83% of those surveyed agreed with requiring proof of U.S. citizenship when registering to vote. However, Americans remain concerned about the 2024 election’s integrity, with only 37% confident it will be “honest and open to all eligible voters,” according to a recent Public Affairs Council/Morning Consult poll.
The United States takes election fraud seriously, with clear legal frameworks to address it. Under 52 U.S.C. § 20511, those who knowingly submit fraudulent voter applications or manipulate vote counts face stiff penalties, including up to five years in prison. The Department of Justice’s Election Crimes Branch provides guidelines for prosecutors handling cases of absentee ballot fraud, campaign finance violations, and misuse of federal funds for political purposes. This legal structure is what Trump appears ready to use to its fullest should he see evidence of fraud in 2024, promising swift and uncompromising consequences for any transgressions.
Trump’s stance on this issue has sparked widespread discussion, especially among those who share his skepticism of current election protocols. His pledge for heightened scrutiny and expanded legal accountability is seen by his supporters as a commitment to election integrity, while others argue that it may escalate election-related tensions. Either way, Trump’s rhetoric underscores the central role that election integrity debates will play as the 2024 election approaches.
