Alarm in 10 states as secret group of security officials warns Trump could send troops and ICE to polling stations

Roughly 10 current and former US defence officials are advising state and federal lawmakers who fear the Trump administration could interfere in the 2026 midterm elections. Their concerns include deploying troops or immigration agents to polling places and trying to invalidate results by alleging voter fraud, which could affect control of Congress.

The officials’ warnings are based on their analysis of the administration’s actions and public remarks, not specific intelligence, and they say they are acting outside their government roles. The discussions have focused on preparing public opposition and safeguards in pivotal states. Trump has sought states’ voter registration databases, signed orders affecting voter registration and mail-in ballots, and repeatedly questioned whether election results can be trusted.