Minnesota’s elections are secure. So why is federal support disappearing?
Minnesota election officials say the state’s voting system remains secure – but they are preparing for the 2026 mid-term election with less federal cybersecurity support, fewer threat briefings and new pressure from Washington. Host Melissa Townsend talks with Minnesota Star Tribune political reporter Briana Bierschbach about why the Trump administration is pulling back proven safeguards while pursuing changes based on unproven claims of widespread voter fraud.
What happens when states are left to defend election systems largely on their own? Bierschbach examines Minnesota’s efforts to replace lost federal support, the administration’s demand for sensitive voter data, the proposed SAVE Act and the questions surrounding federal election monitors. She also explains how potential changes to voter registration and mail-in voting could make it harder for eligible voters to cast a ballot – even as election officials face growing threats and prepare for risks they cannot fully see.
02:18 Why Republicans want new voting rules
03:23 How secure are Minnesota’s elections?
07:10 Trump’s proposed election changes
08:24 What Minnesota officials are telling voters
12:57 Federal election security support disappears
16:16 Why threat briefings have stopped
18:08 Federal poll monitors come to Minnesota
21:46 Trump demands Minnesota’s voter rolls
23:51 Why Steve Simon is refusing
24:55 How the SAVE Act could disrupt voting
26:46 Could the changes favor Republicans?
27:39 Threats against election officials
30:42 Minnesota still awaits a federal briefing
More from Essential Minnesota: https://www.startribune.com/essential-minnesota/601583462
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