By Mildred Robertson
While voters seem acutely focused on rising food and fuel costs, equal attention should be paid to what may be America's best chance to change the country's direction: the 2026 midterm elections. Looking back to the 2020 election and the January 6th attack on the Capitol, it is clear that there are no limits Trump will not cross to maintain power. With only days to go before voters cast their ballots, the Trump administration seems focused on laying the groundwork to overturn the voters' will.
It is likely no coincidence that Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth is firing generals, a group of individuals who might oppose the illegal use of the military to alter the outcome of the election. The administration is also re-establishing its relationship with Elon Musk, who has been accused of tampering with previous elections to benefit Trump.
Local election officials who rejected the false claims that the 2020 election was stolen have already faced threats of being jailed by Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullins. Further, the federal government has attempted to take control of elections from the states, which is patently illegal under the constitution.
ArtI.S4.C1.2.1 States and Elections Clause
Article I, Section 4, Clause 1:
The Times, Places and Manner of holding Elections for Senators and Representatives, shall be prescribed in each State by the Legislature thereof; but the Congress may at any time by Law make or alter such Regulations, except as to the Places of chusing Senators.
It appears the administration, fearing a "Blue Wave," wants to seize control of ballots in order to control the narrative about who actually won the election. Many fear that false allegations about the election outcome may be promoted to stir unrest, or that state officials might refuse to certify election results, hampering the seating of duly elected officials.
American voters must make a clear-eyed assessment of the looming danger. Voters must actively pursue methods to maintain the integrity of our Democracy and the right of each citizen to cast a vote to determine who will lead our nation. The best chance to avoid the likelihood of a corrupt election is to vote in numbers that cannot be denied. Margins must be such that vote tampering, corrupt practices, and voter intimidation can be counterbalanced.
It really just comes down to your individual vote. You must be committed to vote, whether it is by mail, during early voting or in person on election day. You must be aware of the deadlines, and you must face all obstacles that may be placed in your path to hamper your efforts to vote. You must make sure you get to the polls and that your family members and friends get to the poll. Even if you are not enamored with your choices, you still need to make one.
Attend candidate forums. Follow the news. Talk to community thought leaders. Request a sample ballot so that you are familiar with the candidates and the issues that appear on your ballot. Check your registration status prior to going to the polls and make sure you have a valid photo ID. If you are challenged at the polls or don't have the appropriate ID, ask for a provisional ballot. If that doesn't work call the election protection hotline to get help.
When voting, make sure you read all the instructions carefully. Before submitting your ballot, double check that it is complete and correct. If mailing your ballot, make sure that the envelope is properly sealed and that any required witness signature is correct.
This may be the most consequential election in your lifetime. Don't sit this one out. Be informed. Be prepared.
VOTE!
