Trump Says He Won't Rule Out Declaring a National-Security Emergency Ahead of 2026 Elections
In a recent interview, President Donald Trump hinted that a national-security emergency could be considered to influence the 2026 midterm elections, without confirming any specific plan.
President Donald Trump told interviewers he would not dismiss the possibility of invoking a national-security emergency to affect the 2026 midterm elections. The comment came after Wayne Allyn Root of Real America’s Voice suggested that, if Congress fails to pass the proposed "SAVE America Act," the president could declare such an emergency, which would limit mail-in voting and require photo ID and proof of citizenship for voter registration.
Trump responded, "Let me just say that stranger things have happened, OK? I’ll leave it at that," stopping short of a definitive answer. The White House has not provided further clarification.
Legal experts note that any emergency declaration would face significant constitutional hurdles, as election administration is primarily a state responsibility and courts have repeatedly upheld that principle. Federal courts have already blocked a related executive order concerning mail-ballot delivery, and the administration is appealing that decision.
The discussion reflects ongoing concerns about election-related legislation and the administration's efforts to address what it describes as election security issues, including claims of foreign interference. However, the feasibility and legality of a national-security emergency to control elections remain uncertain.