Trump removes remaining Election Assistance Commission members amid criticism
President Trump terminated the three remaining commissioners of the bipartisan Election Assistance Commission, prompting condemnation from officials and watchdog groups ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.
President Donald J. Trump dismissed the three remaining members of the Election Assistance Commission (EAC) on Thursday, leaving the agency without a quorum. The Republican appointee resigned, while the two Democratic commissioners received termination notices by email from the White House personnel office. The EAC, created by the 2002 Help America Vote Act, provides guidance and resources to state and local election officials but does not run elections itself.
Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes said the action "undermines the integrity of nonpartisan election administration" and called it "dangerous" for election officials. Senator Mark Warner of Virginia warned that the firings "should concern every American regardless of party" and demanded an explanation from the administration. Michael Waldman, CEO of the Brennan Center for Justice, described the dismissals as "deeply concerning" given Trump's ongoing efforts to influence election processes.
Legal scholars note that, while the commission’s staff can continue core functions such as grant distribution and voting-system certification, the agency cannot make policy decisions that require a bipartisan majority. The Bipartisan Policy Center said the move is unprecedented and represents a loss for one of the few federal bodies designed for bipartisan governance.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer labeled the firings a "brazen attempt to seize control of our elections" and pledged that Senate Democrats will oppose the action. Despite the leadership vacuum, experts say state and local officials retain the authority to conduct secure elections in November.