Trump Says Voter ID Will Be Required In Midterms ‘Whether Approved By Congress Or Not’

Forbes Business

by Antonio Pequeño IV, Forbes Staff

February 14, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

President Donald Trump has reiterated his commitment to enforcing voter identification requirements ahead of the 2022 midterm elections, regardless of whether Congress approves相关 legislation. In a recent statement, Trump emphasized that voter IDs will be mandatory in key battleground states, even if the SAVE Act—a bill currently making its way through Congress—does not receive final approval. This stance underscores Trump's ongoing efforts to influence election processes and outcomes, particularly in states where his political future may hinge on voter turnout. The SAVE Act, which passed the House of Representatives earlier this week, aims to standardize voter identification requirements across the country. If enacted, it would require all voters to present a valid photo ID at the polls. Proponents argue that such measures are necessary to prevent voter fraud, though critics contend that voter impersonation is exceedingly rare and that these laws disproportionately affect marginalized communities, including low-income individuals and people of color. For businesses, the implications of voter ID requirements are significant. Election integrity initiatives like the SAVE Act could influence voter turnout rates, particularly in states with large minority populations where business interests often have a strong presence. Changes in election outcomes could shift political landscapes, affecting policies that impact corporate operations, such as tax laws, labor regulations, and environmental standards. Trump's push for mandatory voter IDs highlights his broader strategy to shape the political environment ahead of the midterms. By framing these requirements as essential for ensuring fair elections, Trump is signaling a continued focus on election integrity—a issue that has been central to his presidency and one that could resonate with his base. The outcome of these efforts will have far-reaching consequences for both politics and business in the coming years. In summary, while theSAVE Act faces an uncertain future in the Senate, Trump's determination to enforce voter ID requirements regardless of congressional action ensures that this issue remains a key focus in the run-up to the 2022 elections. For businesses, understanding how these policies may impact voter behavior and political outcomes is crucial in navigating the evolving political landscape.

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Originally published on Forbes Business on 2/14/2026