Category: Election Accountability
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Michigan Ballot Fraud Case Ends in Mixed Verdicts After 2022 Scheme
A Michigan jury reached mixed verdicts in an election fraud case involving schemes that disqualified eight Republican candidates from the 2022 primary ballot. One defendant was acquitted, while two were convicted for participating in a fraudulent petition signature operation. The case underscores concerns about ballot access integrity and election security.
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FBI National Outreach to Election Officials Sparks Political Debate Ahead of 2026 Midterms
The FBI has invited U.S. election officials to a briefing on February 25 to discuss preparations for the 2026 midterm elections, prompting concern over federal involvement in historically state-run elections. The outreach occurs amidst heightened scrutiny of federal roles following past controversies, influencing perceptions of election integrity and public trust.
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Department of Education Action Against College Voting Efforts Signals Broader Shift in Federal Voting Policy
The U.S. Department of Education has initiated an investigation into voter engagement efforts on college campuses, specifically targeting the National Study of Learning, Voting, and Engagement. This action raises concerns about potential violations of student privacy laws and could hinder voter registration leading up to the 2026 elections, affecting turnout especially among young voters.
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Possible Elections Law Violation Flagged in Godwin Commissioner Race
A local commissioner race in Godwin, North Carolina, is being reviewed for potential violations of campaign finance laws. Discrepancies in campaign filings prompted oversight from election officials, but no formal charges or penalties have been made yet. The situation underscores the importance of compliance in maintaining public trust in elections.
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Secret Money, Loud Consequences: How Dark Cash Is Warping Democratic Primaries
Key Democratic primaries are increasingly influenced by secret money from Super PACs and outside spending groups, undermining voter agency and accountability. Despite Democrats’ public opposition to big money, these entities exploit opaque funding to shape electoral outcomes, raising concerns about the connection between candidates and constituents and the overall integrity of democracy.
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U.S. Intelligence Oversight Office Investigated Voting Machines Used in Puerto Rico, Report Finds
A U.S. intelligence oversight investigation into voting machines in Puerto Rico was triggered by concerns about potential irregularities. While no evidence of foreign interference or compromised outcomes was found, the review raises questions about the role of intelligence agencies in election oversight and the balance between security and democratic accountability.
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FBI Executes Search Warrant at Georgia Election Office in 2020 Election Probe
On January 28, 2026, FBI agents executed a search warrant at Fulton County’s Election Hub in Georgia as part of a federal investigation into the 2020 presidential election and allegations of fraud. The seizure of ballots and election materials has reignited debates on election integrity and federal authority, impacting future electoral processes.
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Small-Dollar Donations, Big Questions: What FEC Data Can—and Can’t—Tell Us
Federal campaign finance relies heavily on online small-dollar donations, which raise transparency issues in FEC data. Current donation reporting lacks clarity, creating gaps in understanding. Fragmented oversight complicates anomaly analysis and accountability. Suggested reforms include risk-based verification and standardized reporting to enhance system clarity without restricting fundraising practices, ensuring public confidence.
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A Bold Blueprint for Reform: Brennan Center Outlines Nine Solutions to Political Corruption
The Brennan Center for Justice’s new report presents “Nine Solutions for Political Corruption,” aimed at addressing escalating political corruption in America, driven by private wealth’s influence. The proposals include constitutional amendments, banning large donations from government contractors, and enhancing ethical regulations to restore public trust in democratic institutions and accountability.
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Ohio Launches “EleXa,” a Multi-State Election Integrity Network to Share Voter Data and Combat Illegal Voting
On December 15, 2025, Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose launched EleXa, a multi-state election integrity initiative to enhance voter registration accuracy. Eleven states are involved in sharing data to prevent duplicate registrations. LaRose emphasized the initiative’s importance for maintaining election security and public trust while protecting personal information.
Election Desk 