Federal Election Security Changes Prompt Concerns Ahead of 2026 Midterms
State and local election officials say reduced support from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and new federal proposals have raised worries about election administration as the 2026 midterms approach.
The Trump administration's recent efforts to expand federal authority over elections have drawn scrutiny from election officials nationwide. The Center for Election Innovation and Research, a nonpartisan nonprofit, highlighted concerns that new federal actions—such as tighter mail-in ballot restrictions, the SAVE America Act requiring proof of citizenship and photo ID for federal elections, and the Department of Justice's request for voter-roll data linked to immigration records—could affect election processes.
"When people are worried, I understand it. I mean, what they're reading in the news is that the federal government is just constantly attacking elections," said David Becker, executive director of the Center.
Becker also warned that the DOJ's request for Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers and dates of birth could pose identity-theft risks.
A notable change has been the reduction of staff at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), which was created during President Donald Trump’s first term to protect critical infrastructure, including election systems. Former CISA director Jen Easterly told Hearst’s National Investigative Unit in 2024 that the election-security community was strong and collaborative. Since President Trump returned to the White House, more than a dozen CISA election-security workers have been placed on leave, according to Becker.
"This completely wrecked any credibility and trust that had been built up over time," Becker said, adding that officials from both parties are now less likely to seek federal assistance.
A survey of 430 state and local election officials out of more than 7,500 contacted found that while three-quarters did not see an impact on their preparation for the 2026 midterms, some reported reduced contact with CISA, fewer training opportunities, and limited access to services. Requests for assistance were sometimes unanswered.
A CISA spokesperson responded that election security remains a national-security priority and that the agency continues to provide voluntary, no-cost services such as technical expertise and vulnerability scanning to state and local officials.
Becker emphasized that the Constitution assigns election administration to state legislatures and local officials, with the federal government limited to supporting roles. He urged voters to focus on turnout rather than the surrounding debate, noting that voting in the United States is safe and secure.