Trump Administration Warns States To Strengthen Election Security Or Risk Losing Federal Funding

The Trump administration warned states on Friday that they must comply with new federal election security standards or risk losing access to federal election funding, marking the latest push to strengthen election integrity ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said states receiving federal election security grants will be required to meet a series of standards, including maintaining accurate voter rolls, strengthening voting machine security, and improving safeguards against foreign interference. He said taxpayers should not be funding election systems that fail to meet basic security requirements.

Mullin also urged states to fully cooperate with federal election integrity initiatives, including expanded use of citizenship verification tools and greater coordination with the Department of Homeland Security. He said election security is a national security issue and that states choosing not to participate should not expect continued federal support.

The announcement follows President Trump’s recent address on election integrity, in which he called on Congress to pass the SAVE America Act. The legislation would require proof of U.S. citizenship to register to vote, establish nationwide voter identification standards, and implement additional election security measures.

According to the administration, approximately $1 billion in federal funding is available to help states modernize election infrastructure, replace outdated equipment, improve cybersecurity, and secure voter registration systems. Officials said access to those funds will depend on states demonstrating meaningful compliance with the new requirements.

The administration has already warned several states that they must address concerns involving voter rolls and election procedures or face potential funding consequences. President Trump and administration officials argue the measures are necessary to restore public confidence in elections and ensure that only eligible American citizens are able to vote.