For years, Republican rhetoric has included claims of widespread election fraud by Democrats. Ironically, Republican sources themselves undermine these claims. The Heritage Foundation has found about 2,000 cases from 2004 to 2022 out of more than three billion votes, evidence that disproves claims of systemic
fraud (Brennan Center). Why does this narrative of fraud persist? Because it is politically useful, helping justify laws that suppress votes likely to favor Democrats.
This rhetoric has conditioned Republican voters to believe elections are routinely stolen. Trump exploited that belief in his attempt to remain in power, claiming fraud despite lack of evidence (acknowledged by his own allies). His rhetoric led to the events of January 6. Special Counsel Jack Smith has said that Trump exploited
his followers using their party loyalty, and the evidence against him largely comes from Republicans who supported him but put loyalty to the Constitution first.
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Trump and Republican leaders still repeat the lie, and the White House has rewritten January 6 history to support it — another con.
Barbara Hall
Midtown
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