No troops planned for midterms as voters should know possible problems at polls

Officials Prepare for Election Day

Concerns have grown after a year in which President Trump used federal authority to support claims of election fraud that have not been substantiated. Election officials and Democrats worry those attacks could heighten tensions at polling places or prompt unfounded disputes over the results.

Some state and local authorities have included the possibility of federal involvement in their Election Day planning. Still, officials say they are ready to help ensure voting is conducted safely and fairly.

Tina Barton, co-chairwoman of the Committee for Safe and Secure Elections, said election workers and law enforcement are taking steps to prevent problems and respond quickly if an incident occurs. Her organization has helped provide election training around the country.

Questions About Federal Forces

Trump has declined to rule out using the Insurrection Act in connection with the election. The 1807 law gives a president broad powers, under certain conditions, to deploy the military to address widespread unrest at home.

Some supporters outside the administration have urged the president to take that extreme step. Whether any such action will occur remains uncertain.

Military Adviser Reports No Plans

In late August, Gen. Dan Caine, the president’s top military adviser, said the armed forces had no plans to send troops in relation to the elections. He made the statement in a letter to a Democratic senator. Caine wrote that he had not received, and did not expect to receive, an unlawful order concerning the military’s role in the November 2026 midterms.