Ongoing efforts to undermine U.S. elections erodes democracy, risks violence, and threatens the peaceful transfer of power, say NCEI co-chairs

In response to recent comments made by former President Donald Trump and Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC), who both refused to commit to accepting the results of the 2024 election, Issue One released the following statement from Rep. Zach Wamp (R-TN) and Amb. Tim Roemer (D-IN), co-chairs of the bipartisan National Council on Election Integrity:

“If we are to keep our republic, every honorable leader in the nation must accept the will of the voters once every eligible ballot has been counted,” said Rep. Wamp. “These ongoing efforts to sow doubt in our free and fair elections erodes the foundation of our democracy, risks violence, and threatens the peaceful transfer of power. After all legitimate appeals are heard, it is our duty and responsibility to accept the results.”

Amb. Roemer added: “American democracy is founded on key principles such as accepting the results of elections and the peaceful transfer of power. When incumbents and candidates for office refuse to commit themselves to these basic tenets, our system bleeds trust and confidence. We teach our children to accept the results of sporting events and student council elections, yet too many officials today like Sen. Tim Scott fail this basic test of decency and honor toward the United States system.”