Trump empties out election commission leadership just months before midterms
nextgov.com
Trump cleared out the election commission's entire leadership months before midterms — raising the question of whether a confirmation-dependent vacancy is a bug or a feature.
Principal-Agent ProblemInstitutional ErosionGame TheoryChecks and Balances
Theory Briefing
- The entire leadership of the federal election commission was removed, leaving a vacuum just as officials ramp up 2026 midterm preparations.
- Any replacements require Senate confirmation, meaning the agency could remain leaderless for an extended and consequential period.
- Election officials must now prepare for a national vote without the oversight body that typically guides and certifies the process.
- The timing — months before midterms, not after — sharpens debate over whether the vacancies are administrative or strategic.