Republicans in Congress are advancing legislation to severely restrict mail-in voting, a move directly echoing President Trump's repeated calls to eliminate the practice he deems 'rigged'. The Senate is considering a bill co-sponsored by Senator Eric Schmitt that would effectively ban universal mail-in voting, allowing only narrow exceptions for military service, travel, disability, and medical hardships. This proposal follows a House-passed voter identification bill already under Senate scrutiny. Schmitt's plan would supersede other proposed mail-voting requirements in the broader election legislation, potentially dismantling the system used by millions. Eight states, including Utah (Senator Mike Lee's home state), rely almost exclusively on mail-in voting, creating a significant challenge for the proposal.

While Schmitt and allies like Senator Mike Lee argue the change is manageable, opponents warn it will disenfranchise vulnerable voters, particularly seniors, and lower participation rates. Democrats, united against the measure, see it as a voter suppression tactic, pointing out widespread bipartisan use of mail voting across states with Republican majorities.