Texas blocks expansion of mail-in voting rights days after Trump fact-checked over ‘scam’ claims

Lack of immunity to Covid-19 not a disability under electoral code, judge rules

A decision to allow mail-in balloting for voters who feared for their health because of the coronavirus outbreak was blocked by the Texas Supreme Court on Wednesday.

“We agree with the state that a voter's lack of immunity to Covid-19, without more, is not a 'disability' as defined by the Election Code,” Chief Justice Nathan Hecht said in a ruling.

Ken Paxton, the Texas attorney general, who had argued for the state in the case, welcomed the decision and said it was incorrect to include fear of contracting Covid-19 as a “disability” on mail-in ballot applications.

“In-person voting is the surest way to maintain the integrity of our elections, prevent voter fraud and guarantee that every voter is who they claim to be,” Mr Paxton, a Republican, said.

Republicans, including Donald Trump, have said mail-in voting is susceptible to rigging.

Mr Trump said on Twitter the court's decision was a big win and labelled mail-in voting “dangerous” and a “scam”.

Democrats say that voting via mail is necessary to counter health risks from the coronavirus by helping to prevent crowds at polling places.

The case was originally brought by the Democratic Party of Texas, which is looking to expand the ability of voters to cast ballots during the pandemic.

“Now, it is up to the federal court to ensure basic constitutional rights still exist in Texas and ensure that Texans have a right to vote safely and not put their health at-risk,” Gilberto Hinojos, chair of the Texas Democrats, said after the court ruling.

Reuters