By — Associated Press Associated Press Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/democratic-governors-blast-trumps-call-to-nationalize-elections Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Democratic governors blast Trump's call to 'nationalize' elections Politics Feb 5, 2026 3:05 PM EST Democratic governors released a joint statement on Thursday saying that Americans should have the right to vote "without interference from the federal government." The statement comes after Trump said on a podcast earlier this week that Republicans should "take over" elections in some jurisdictions. WATCH: White House says Trump was referring to SAVE Act when he advocated nationalizing elections White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said he was referring to a push that voters prove they are U.S. citizens, though Trump still described states as an "agent for the federal government" when it comes to elections. A free press is a cornerstone of a healthy democracy. Support trusted journalism and civil dialogue. Donate now By — Associated Press Associated Press
Democratic governors released a joint statement on Thursday saying that Americans should have the right to vote "without interference from the federal government." The statement comes after Trump said on a podcast earlier this week that Republicans should "take over" elections in some jurisdictions. WATCH: White House says Trump was referring to SAVE Act when he advocated nationalizing elections White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said he was referring to a push that voters prove they are U.S. citizens, though Trump still described states as an "agent for the federal government" when it comes to elections. A free press is a cornerstone of a healthy democracy. Support trusted journalism and civil dialogue. Donate now