The Election Assistance Commission (EAC), a bipartisan agency tasked with improving election administration, has lost its leadership. President Donald Trump removed the two Democratic commissioners, while the remaining Republican member resigned. This move comes just months before the 2026 midterm elections and has sparked concerns about the agency’s future and the integrity of the voting process.
The EAC’s mission is to help election officials improve the administration of elections and help Americans participate in the voting process. Its responsibilities include certifying voting systems, providing information to state election administrators, and disbursing election security grants. While the agency can continue its existing work, the lack of commissioners means it cannot adopt new policies or update existing ones.
Context and implications of the EAC leadership purge
The dismantling of the EAC leadership is a direct consequence of the Supreme Court’s recent decision in Trump v. Slaughter which ruled that the president has the power to remove appointees at ostensibly independent federal agencies. This decision has raised concerns about the politicization of government and the potential impact on the integrity of elections.
Experts agree that the immediate impact on the 2026 midterms will be limited, as most of the EAC’s work for the elections has already been completed. However, the long-term effects could be significant. The lack of leadership could damage the EAC’s ability to provide training, certify new voting equipment, and offer voter education and assistance.
The EAC’s role in election administration
The EAC plays a crucial role in supporting state and local election officials. It provides resources, guidance, and funding to help ensure smooth and secure elections. The agency’s work includes certifying voting systems, disbursing grants for election security, and convening meetings and advisory boards to address emerging issues in election administration.
Despite the removal of the commissioners, the EAC’s executive director may still be able to take official actions. However, any controversial actions taken without a quorum could face legal challenges. Moreover, the EAC’s structure as a deliberative body means that it relies on input from its multiple advisory bodies, which may oppose any directives from the Trump administration.
Concerns about election integrity and the future of the EAC
The removal of the EAC commissioners has raised concerns about the integrity of the voting process and the future of the agency. Experts warn that the lack of leadership could undermine the EAC’s ability to provide essential support to state and local election officials, particularly in the face of ongoing threats and harassment.
While the immediate impact on the 2026 midterms may be limited, the long-term effects of the EAC leadership purge could be significant. The agency’s ability to adapt to new challenges and provide support to election officials could be compromised, raising questions about the future of election administration in the United States.
