The Trump administration has removed two members of the independent Election Assistance Commission (EAC) and accepted a resignation, effectively rendering the agency non-functional.
The moves strip the commission of the quorum needed to conduct official business, including setting voting system standards and distributing federal election funds.
The firings come as President Trump seeks to tighten control over ballot counting procedures ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
The EAC was created after the 2000 presidential election to help states modernize voting equipment and ensure reliable election administration.
Critics view the administration’s actions as an effort to weaken independent oversight of federal elections, raising concerns about potential partisan influence.
Without a functioning EAC, states will face challenges in certifying voting machines and accessing federal grants for election security.
The remaining commissioners have no authority to make decisions or issue guidance, leaving a leadership vacuum at a critical time for election preparedness.
