States take steps to secure vote after federal pullback
State officials have largely taken securing the 2026 midterm elections into their own hands after nearly two years of federal program and funding cuts during the second Trump administration. Why it matters: The reduction in federal support has come as AI tools threaten to make it easier for hackers to uncover software vulnerabilities, launch cyberattacks, and spread disinformation that undermines…
As funding for election security dwindles, state governments are stepping up efforts to safeguard the integrity of 2026 midterm elections. The Trump administration's cuts to federal assistance have left officials scrambling to fill the gap. Cybersecurity threats, including AI-powered disinformation campaigns, pose a growing risk to election integrity.
While most U.S. elections maintain paper records for verification, the potential for sophisticated attacks remains a concern. State election officials are partnering with homeland security agencies, fusion centers, police, National Guard units, and private cybersecurity firms to prepare for various scenarios, from cyber intrusions to physical disruptions and legal challenges.
The Arizona secretary of state's office has lacked dedicated cybersecurity support since March 2025. However, the state's Department of Homeland Security has stepped in, providing essential tools and monitoring services to smaller counties. On Election Day, Arizona will mobilize its cybersecurity team, National Guard, FBI, and a representative from CISA's Region 9 office to address potential threats.
Collaboration with former CISA personnel, election security nonprofits, and other states is also proving invaluable. Despite these measures, officials express a desire for increased federal support to fully restore their capabilities.
Written by urgent.news from Axios's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
