Trump dismisses two members of Election Assistance Commission ahead of midterm elections

President Donald Trump has terminated two members of the federal Election Assistance Commission, Chairman Thomas Hicks and Commissioner Benjamin Hovland, as of July 9, 2026. This action reduces the commission's capacity to assist local election officials in preparation for the upcoming 2026 midterm elections. The commission's vice chair, Christy McCormick, resigned on June 9, and a fourth position became vacant earlier this year when Donald Palmer left the agency. The commission requires three of its four members to approve actions, and it may take months to fill the current vacancies. The White House stated that the president has the authority to remove individuals not aligned with the goal of securing elections. State and local election officials have reported a decrease in assistance from federal agencies responsible for election security. Concerns have been raised following a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision that expands the president's power over independent agencies. The Election Assistance Commission was established to support states in improving election administration and is responsible for distributing federal election funds and providing guidance to state and local officials.