Senator Markey Introduces Resolution to Affirm States’ Constitutional Authority to Run Federal Elections

Resolution Text (PDF)

Washington (February 9, 2026) - Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, released the following statement after introducing a resolution denouncing statements by President Donald Trump that he may "nationalize," commandeer, or otherwise assume direct control over state-run elections.

"The Constitution gives states the primary authority over the times, places, and manner of federal elections to the States. It does not assign to the President any power to directly control or administer State-run elections;" said Senator Markey. "There is no clause in the Constitution or law on the books-none-that allows a President to commandeer state election systems. No emergency power. No implied authority. No 'because I say so.' The President's role is to faithfully execute the laws-not to rewrite the Constitution when the facts or the voters displease them.

"If any President were to attempt-by order, directive, or coercion-to nationalize or commandeer state-run elections, that action would be unconstitutional, illegal, and without effect. Such an attempt would not merely be unlawful-it would be impeachable."

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