A group of U.S. national security officials has been quietly working with state governments and congressional lawmakers to prepare for possible federal interference in the upcoming midterm elections on November 3. The effort reflects concerns within parts of the government that the Trump administration may attempt to influence or undermine the election process to secure Republican control of Congress.

Comprised of about 10 current and former officials with backgrounds in the Defense Department and countering authoritarian threats abroad, the group has consulted with officials from at least 10 states. These engagements have included governors, election officials, and members of both parties in the House and Senate, focusing particularly on states where races are expected to be close. Their outreach aims to raise awareness of potential federal actions that could affect the election and to advise on strategies to protect the integrity of voting procedures.

Officials involved emphasize that their warnings are based on analysis of public statements and actions by the administration rather than classified intelligence. They have flagged concerns that the White House might use federal agencies—including law enforcement, immigration officers, or the military—to influence voter turnout or challenge election results, potentially on unsubstantiated grounds such as claims of voter fraud. Such scenarios echo events following the 2020 presidential election, when efforts to overturn the results culminated in violent unrest at the U.S. Capitol.

Several Republican-led states have already resisted attempts by the administration to access voter data or exert federal control over election processes, citing constitutional protections that assign election oversight primarily to state authorities. For instance, Utah’s lieutenant governor has publicly stated that some of the most significant threats to election security originate from within the federal government itself.

Efforts by the Trump administration include pushing for broader federal authority over elections through legislation like the SAVE America Act, which has not advanced in the Senate. The administration also has pursued legal challenges affecting mail-in voting and has deployed campaign-style advertising promoting Republican candidates ahead of the midterms. Additionally, President Donald Trump has repeatedly claimed that Democrats are engaging in widespread voter fraud, continuing a narrative that critics say threatens public trust in the electoral process.

Defense and homeland security officials have been questioned about the potential deployment of troops or immigration agents to polling sites. Senior military leaders have stated there are no current plans for such measures, though some officials declined to categorically rule out future deployments if “threats” arise. Homeland Security officials have similarly emphasized that immigration enforcement personnel will only act in response to specific public safety risks near polling locations.

Meanwhile, election experts note that while foreign interference from countries such as Russia and China remains a persistent concern, domestic threats related to federal intervention have become the predominant worry for officials preparing for the vote. States have reportedly rehearsed responses to potential direct interference, such as federal agents seeking access to ballots or voting equipment.

The situation highlights heightened tensions surrounding the November elections amid low presidential approval ratings and widespread voter frustration over economic issues and foreign conflicts. Democrats are widely favored to gain control of the House and possibly the Senate, promising increased oversight of the administration if successful. The unfolding preparations underscore the complex challenges facing election security in the current polarized political climate.