OCA Calls for Protection of Voting Rights Following Executive Order Targeting Mail-In Voting

For Immediate Release
April 2, 2026

Media Contact: 
Socheata Sun, Senior Communications Associate
socheata.sun@ocanational.org

Washington, D.C. — OCA - Asian Pacific American Advocates vehemently condemns the recent executive order issued by President Trump targeting mail-in voting, a move that threatens voting access and undermines the democratic process ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

The executive order seeks to restrict mail-in voting by directing federal agencies to create a national list of eligible voters and limiting mail ballots to individuals included on that list, despite the Constitution granting states primary authority over election administration. Legal experts and voting rights advocates have already raised serious concerns about the order’s legality and its potential to disenfranchise eligible voters. 

Mail-in voting has long served as a critical tool for expanding participation and ensuring that all eligible voters—especially communities historically marginalized in the electoral process, such as people with disabilities, older Americans, students living away from home, lower-income voters, and military personnel stationed overseas—can cast their ballots. Furthermore, within the Asian American community, nearly half of voters prefer voting by mail or dropping off their ballots rather than voting in person; limiting these options would create unnecessary barriers and undermine public trust in the electoral process.

“Our democracy is strongest when every eligible voter has the opportunity to participate,” said Sharon Wong, National President of OCA - Asian Pacific American Advocates. “We urge policymakers and leaders at all levels to reject policies that restrict voting access and instead work toward expanding protections that ensure fair and accessible elections for all Americans.”

OCA stands with civil rights organizations and election officials across the country in calling for the protection of voting rights and the preservation of accessible voting options, including mail-in voting. Congress must protect democratic institutions and ensure that all eligible voters can make their voices heard without unnecessary barriers.

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About OCA - Asian Pacific American Advocates

Founded in 1973, OCA–Asian Pacific American Advocates is a national, member-driven social justice organization of community advocates dedicated to advancing the sociopolitical and holistic well-being of all Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (AANHPIs). Learn more about our work at ocanational.org/about.