The NPR Politics Podcast Elections Officials Prep For Possible Federal Interference In The Midterms
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Dec 4, 2025 Elections officials are on high alert for potential federal interference in upcoming midterms, likening it to preparing for a natural disaster. Discussions revolve around Trump’s attempts to gain control over state elections, including aggressive tactics and emergency powers. The chilling effect of immigration enforcement near polling places could deter key voter demographics. There’s also growing bipartisan concern about the accountability for past election interference, as recent elections have shown both the risks and limits of federal influence.
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Preparing For Federal Overreach
- Election officials now prepare proactively for a wide range of federal interference scenarios.
- They view Trump's push to expand presidential control over elections as the core threat to guard against.
Natural Disaster Metaphor From A Secretary
- A Democratic secretary of state compared election planning to preparing for a hurricane or big snowstorm.
- The metaphor underscores 'hope for the best, prepare for the worst' planning mentality.
Security Forces Near Polling Places
- Officials now include potential National Guard or immigration-enforcement presence in election plans.
- Such presences could be positioned near polling sites to intimidate voters without legally being