WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump and Democratic rival Joe Biden made a last-ditch push for votes in battleground states on Monday as their campaigns prepared for post-election disputes that could prolong a divisive presidential election.
Trump, who is trailing in national opinion polls, has continued to lob unfounded attacks on mail-in ballots, suggesting he would deploy lawyers if states are still counting votes after Election Day on Tuesday.
Trump told reporters on Monday evening that Pennsylvania’s plans to count mail ballots that arrive up to three days after Election Day would lead to widespread cheating, although he did not explain how.
He urged the US Supreme Court to reconsider its decision that left the extension in place. The court has left that possibility open.
On Twitter and Facebook, Trump said the court decision would “induce violence in the streets.” The social media platforms flagged the posts, adding disclaimers saying the content “might be misleading” and that voting by mail and voting in person have a “history of trustworthiness.”
Twitter and Facebook both said they would attach warning labels to messages that prematurely claim an election victory.
The election has prompted an unprecedented wave of litigation over whether to adjust voting rules in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Both sides have amassed armies of lawyers who are prepared to take on post-election battles. (Reuters)
