Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer has vowed to fight President Donald Trump's decision to fire every remaining member of the bipartisan Election Assistance Commission (EAC), calling it a blatant power grab ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
Schumer Condemns Firings as Power Grab
In a statement posted on X, Schumer wrote: "Firing every remaining member of the bipartisan Election Assistance Commission months before the midterms is a brazen attempt to seize control of our elections before a single vote is cast." He emphasized that the EAC is the independent agency responsible for certifying voting systems and assisting election officials in running secure elections.
Schumer described the firings as part of Trump's broader effort to undermine election integrity. "He is gutting the independent agency that certifies voting systems and helps election officials run secure elections," Schumer added.
Democrats Pledge to Resist
Schumer declared that Senate Democrats will fight the move, asserting that "the American people—not Donald Trump—will decide the 2026 election." The EAC, established in 2002, plays a key role in maintaining federal election standards and providing guidance to state and local election officials.
The firings come months before the November 2026 midterm elections, raising concerns among Democrats and voting rights advocates about potential disruptions to election administration. The EAC's four commissioners were removed without explanation, leaving the agency without a quorum to conduct official business.
Impact on Election Security
The EAC's responsibilities include testing and certifying voting machines, distributing federal election funds, and issuing voluntary voting system guidelines. Without commissioners, the agency cannot certify new voting systems or approve grants, which could affect states preparing for the midterms.
Critics argue that the move could erode public confidence in election security. According to election law experts, the firings may violate federal statutes that protect the EAC's independence. The Trump administration has not commented on the legal justification for the dismissals.
