POLITICS

Washington ousts entire federal election assistance commission

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Washington, DC — President Donald Trump has removed all remaining members of the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC), leaving the independent federal agency without any commissioners just months before the 2026 midterm elections. The dismissals, confirmed by White House officials, have effectively halted the commission’s ability to coordinate federal support for election administration and voting systems nationwide. The action targeted the three remaining commissioners on the four-seat bipartisan panel, which oversees key aspects of election standards, voting system certification, and federal guidance to state and local election officials. The two Democratic commissioners, Thomas Hicks and Benjamin Hovland, were terminated via an email sent on July 9, 2026, by Morgan DeWitt Snow, the deputy director of presidential personnel at the White House, informing them their positions were ended effective immediately. The commission’s sole remaining Republican member, Christy McCormick, was asked by the administration to resign and subsequently did so, while the fourth seat had been vacant since April 2026 following the departure of former Republican commissioner Donald Palmer. All three ousted commissioners had previously been unanimously confirmed by the U.S. Senate, and with no commissioners in place, the EAC no longer has the quorum of at least three members required under federal law to adopt official policies or execute its core statutory functions.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

April 2026 Former commissioner Donald Palmer departs
June 2026 EAC operates with three commissioners
Last week White House initiates commissioner removals
July 9, 2026 Termination emails sent to Democrats
July 9, 2026 Hicks and Hovland officially removed
Following day McCormick requested to resign position
Subsequently Christy McCormick submits formal resignation
Months before midterms EAC left without any commissioners

Why This Matters to You

The Election Assistance Commission (EAC) helps ensure fair, accurate elections. It sets standards, certifies voting systems, and guides local officials. With no commissioners, its work is on hold. This could impact how smoothly your voting experience goes in the upcoming midterms.

The Bottom Line

President Trump's removal of all EAC commissioners leaves a critical agency in limbo. It's unclear how this will affect the 2026 midterms. Stay informed about your local voting procedures and changes. Worth forwarding if you know someone who values a smooth voting process.