News & Updates from LWVDC

As you know, we have seen a remarkable attack on many democratic institutions and values during these first weeks of the new administration. LWVUS CEO Celina Stewart writes: "The first 60 days of the Trump administration have been nothing short of an unprecedented, breathtaking assault on American democracy. From the pardoning of January 6 perpetrators and the terrorizing of immigrant communities, to the dismantling of crucial government agencies and the blatant flouting of court rulings, to the erasing of contributions of people of color, the Trump administration is waging a full-scale attack on all Americans. 

“But no matter what they throw at us, we will not back down. Americans have proven we can overcome the toughest of circumstances together. And for over a century, the League has remained steadfast in our commitment to empowering the American people and defending our democracy." Read the League's message in full here: LWVUS Statement on Unprecedented Assault on Democracy

And this week President Trump issued an executive order on elections, which includes the following actions: 

• Requires the Election Assistance Commission to add documentary proof of citizenship to federal voter registration form; 
• Requires states to access databases to verify eligibility;
• Instructs the attorney general and DOGE to review voter registration databases; and
• Requires that all ballots be counted on Election Day. 

DC’s pro-voter election laws, as well as LWVDC’s mission, would be particularly affected by these actions. At this time LWVUS is leading League messaging on this EO in order to protect all our options for future action. LWVUS’s press statement is available here.

This EO on elections is a precursor for and would accomplish similar aims as the SAVE Act, which is expected to come to the House floor the week of March 31. The legislation would require citizenship documentation to register to vote even though voters in every state are already required to affirm or verify their citizenship status when registering. It is already illegal for noncitizens to register and vote in federal or state elections. The SAVE Act would create another barrier to voting.

What You Can Do

As League members and friends, we can make our voices heard! Here is guidance on urging members of Congress to do their job. Please share with your family and friends in other states who have voting representation in Congress.

• Urge members of Congress to meet with their constituents.
• Contact your members of Congress! Tell them to oppose the SAVE Act.
• Action Alert 
• Talking Points  
• And, if you love a march, please join us for the National Hands Off! Mobilization Rally in DC:
• Where & when: Saturday, April 5, 12 - 3:30 pm ET
• Location: National Mall, Washington Monument, 2 15th St NW, Washington DC 20004
• Sign-up here
• We are taking to the streets to send a clear message to the administration: Hands Off! our elections, our health care, our data, our jobs, our services—and the autonomy of the District of Columbia. LWVUS and LWVDC are Hands Off! partners. So far over 700 events will be happening across the country—an incredible testament to the energy and commitment behind this movement. This mass mobilization day is our message to the world that we do not consent to the destruction of our democracy, our government and our economy. Alongside Americans across the country, we are marching, rallying, and protesting to demand a stop the chaos and build an opposition movement against the looting of our country. A core principle behind all Hands Off! events is a commitment to nonviolent action. We expect all participants to seek to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who disagree with our values.
• We will have “Hands Off! Washington DC” placards for our participants to carry. Check out handsoff2025.com for more information.