Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson (R) said Sunday that “it’s not helpful for the president to think out loud” about delaying the election after President Trump raised the idea last week.
Hutchinson said on CNN’s “State of the Union” that the date for Election Day should not change.
“Well, it’s not helpful for the president to think out loud in a public fashion and express some frustration,” Hutchinson said. “It’s gotta be through a process, and obviously, as everyone has indicated, there shouldn’t be any change in the date of the election.”
The Republican governor called the date “historic,” “constitutional” and “required” on Sunday and called on states to ensure “fair elections.” Hutchinson said Arkansas plans to extend access to absentee ballots and put in place “proper controls to minimize any fraudulent activity.”
“I know it’s frustrating for the president,” he said.
{mosads}“But one thing the United States is known for is smooth elections,” he added. “It’s known for having a process that people feel comfortable participating in and accepting those results, and that’s what should happen this year.”
On Thursday, the president proposed postponing the 2020 elections, although he does not have the power to do so unilaterally. Trump made his suggestion as he raised doubts about mail-in voting amid the coronavirus pandemic and potential fraud.
There is no evidence, however, that absentee or mail-in ballots increase voter fraud.