Former Election Assistance Commission (EAC) chair Thomas Hicks reported that the federal agency tasked with supporting state and local voting infrastructure is currently unable to function. The commission provides resources for voter registration and the maintenance of voting machines across various United States jurisdictions.
Hicks discussed the impacts of recent administrative changes and vacancies within the agency during a segment with PBS News. He stated that the lack of functional capacity comes as local officials prepare for the upcoming election cycle, tasks that he noted often require months or years of lead time.
The EAC was established to assist local election officials with technical guidance and administrative support. The current operational status of the commission follows efforts by the Trump administration to shift how federal election assistance is managed. Supporters of the administration's approach have argued for more direct state control over election protocols, while critics cite concerns regarding the consistency of federal support.