POLITICS

United States president removes entire election commission leadership

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President Donald Trump has removed the remaining leadership of the federal Election Assistance Commission (EAC), leaving the bipartisan agency without any commissioners months before the November 2026 midterm elections. On Friday afternoon, July 10, 2026, the White House presidential personnel office notified Democratic commissioners Thomas Hicks and Benjamin Hovland by email that their positions were terminated effective immediately. Following those dismissals, the sole remaining Republican commissioner, Christy McCormick, resigned. A fourth seat had already been vacant since earlier in 2026 after Republican commissioner Donald Palmer resigned. With all four seats empty, the EAC currently lacks a quorum and cannot take official actions.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

2002 Congress creates Election Assistance Commission
Earlier 2026 Donald Palmer resigns commission seat
July 10, 2026 Hicks, Hovland notified of termination
July 10, 2026 White House email executes dismissals
Shortly after terminations Christy McCormick submits resignation
Same day all four EAC commissioner seats vacant
Following announcements election officials voice procedural concerns

Why This Matters to You

The Election Assistance Commission (EAC) helps ensure fair elections. With no commissioners, it can't act. This could impact the November midterms. Check your state's election office for updates.

The Bottom Line

The EAC is now leaderless, months before a major election. This is a first. It's unclear how this will affect voting. Worth forwarding if you know someone who cares about fair elections.