Radio Atlantic Will 2026 Be a Fair Fight?
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Nov 6, 2025 David A. Graham, a Staff writer at The Atlantic specializing in national politics, discusses pressing threats to election integrity. He highlights the challenges Democrats face as Republicans may manipulate election rules, using tactics that intimidate voters and candidates. Graham examines potential scenarios for 2026, including the effects of gerrymandering and the risks of chaos on election night. He warns about the systemic pressures and outlines the importance of vigilance in preserving free and fair elections amidst emerging authoritarian trends.
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Systematic Tilting Of The Playing Field
- David A. Graham frames Trump's actions as efforts to systematically tilt elections toward Republicans using intimidation and power.
- He describes this pattern as competitive authoritarianism where opposition exists but is undermined institutionally.
Competitive Authoritarianism Explained
- Graham links these tactics to the political-science concept of competitive authoritarianism.
- Opposition remains allowed but faces investigations, intimidation, and legal pressure that reduce real competition.
DOJ Monitors As A Dry Run
- Graham points to DOJ sending monitors to New Jersey and California as a conspicuous example from this week's voting.
- He and election officials view such moves as testing methods that could be scaled in 2026.