Local Election Officials Withhold Voter Data From DHS as Trump Administration Presses Access
Updated
Updated · LAist · Jun 16
Local Election Officials Withhold Voter Data From DHS as Trump Administration Presses Access
1 articles · Updated · LAist · Jun 16
Summary
Local election officials across the political spectrum told NPR they are withholding voter data and other security information from the federal government over fears it could be used against them.
DHS is no longer seen by some officials as a partner in election security but as a potential threat that could help undermine results President Trump dislikes.
The concern follows unprecedented Trump administration moves to scrutinize local election administration, including lawsuits seeking states' private voter-registration data.
Federal efforts have also included attempts to access voting machines and ballots, in some cases successfully, deepening mistrust between local officials and Washington.
As federal security support for elections is cut, how will states defend the 2026 midterms against cyber threats?
What happens when federal demands for voter data clash with state laws designed to protect every citizen's privacy?
DOJ Sues 30 States for Voter Data: Legal Battles, Privacy Risks, and the Future of Federal Election Oversight Ahead of 2026 Midterms
Overview
As of June 2026, the U.S. Department of Justice is aggressively seeking complete state voter registration lists, claiming it is to ensure accurate voter rolls and remove ineligible voters. However, critics warn this could block eligible voters and undermine trust in election results. Federal courts have repeatedly rejected the DOJ’s legal arguments, with judges in several states dismissing lawsuits and emphasizing that current laws do not require such broad data sharing. Despite these setbacks, the DOJ continues to pressure states, creating legal battles, privacy concerns, and uncertainty for the 2026 midterm elections.