Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin stated Friday that state election officials could face fines, penalties, and even prison time if they do not participate in what he described as the SAVE program, intended to bolster election integrity.
Mullin's remarks came during a press conference where he referenced former President Donald Trump's repeated claims of a rigged 2020 election. When asked if midterm elections would be secure, Mullin emphasized the need to "build confidence in the American people" but added that "the states have to do their part."
The SAVE America Act, which Trump is urging, would require voters to prove their citizenship when registering and show photo identification at polling places. However, the legislation is not expected to pass the Senate.
Mullin's comments drew criticism, with many observers pointing out that the U.S. Constitution designates states, not the federal government, as responsible for managing elections. Social media users widely noted that Mullin's threat was perceived as both unconstitutional and illegal.