Context:

Growing mistrust among state and local election officials towards the Trump administration is raising concerns that it may impede cooperation with federal agencies, thereby exposing elections to foreign influence. This distrust was exacerbated by the FBI's recent search of Fulton County's election office, which followed a history of federal efforts to enhance election security that have been curtailed under the current administration. As officials prepare for the midterms, they fear that the lack of coordination may benefit adversaries looking to disrupt the electoral process. Despite efforts to engage election officials, many now view federal agencies with skepticism, complicating the landscape for securing elections ahead. The potential implications of this mistrust could hinder effective responses to foreign threats in the upcoming elections.

Dive Deeper:

• An FBI email sent to state election officials sought to discuss federal assistance for securing the midterms, a routine outreach that is now viewed with suspicion due to recent events.

• The FBI's search warrant execution at the Fulton County election office raised alarms among election officials, fostering an atmosphere of distrust towards federal authorities.

• The first Trump administration established robust federal security measures against foreign election interference, but the second has dismantled several initiatives aimed at countering such threats.

• Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard's involvement in the Fulton County search has been controversial, as she has not substantiated claims linking it to foreign threats.

• Former Republican election officials have noted a significant decline in collegiality between state and federal authorities, with many now regarding federal officials as adversaries rather than partners.

• Concerns have been voiced that election officials may overreact to federal communications, thereby complicating collaboration in a crucial election cycle.

• Don Palmer from the Election Assistance Commission emphasized the importance of establishing communication channels for the upcoming election year to rebuild trust.