What's Happening?
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), established in 2018 to protect U.S. election systems, is facing significant changes under President Trump's administration. Recent budget cuts and staffing reductions have raised concerns among
election officials about CISA's ability to support upcoming elections, including the 2026 midterms. The agency has been pivotal in safeguarding election infrastructure, but its role has been reduced due to a $10 million budget cut and the disbandment of a task force on foreign influence operations. CISA is currently without an official director, as the nomination of Sean Plankey remains stalled in the Senate. Despite assurances from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem that election security services will continue, state officials are uncertain about CISA's future involvement.
Why It's Important?
The reduction in CISA's role could have significant implications for the security of U.S. elections. With control of Congress at stake in the 2026 midterms, the diminished federal support may leave state and local election officials vulnerable to cyber threats and foreign interference. The agency's absence in recent elections has already forced states like California and Pennsylvania to rely more on local resources, potentially increasing costs and complicating coordination efforts. The uncertainty surrounding CISA's future involvement underscores the need for alternative solutions to ensure election security, which is crucial for maintaining public trust in the electoral process.
What's Next?
State and local election officials are seeking clarity on CISA's plans and exploring alternative measures to fill the gaps left by the agency's reduced role. This includes finding new partners for intelligence briefings and testing election equipment for vulnerabilities. The ongoing review of CISA's election-related work and the potential appointment of a new director could shape the agency's future contributions. Meanwhile, states are preparing to address security challenges independently, which may involve increased collaboration with local law enforcement and cybersecurity experts.
