Poll Reveals Widespread Fear Trump Will Seize Ballots and Voting Machines in 2026 Midterms

A new poll from the States United Democracy Center exposes a stark reality: Americans are deeply concerned that Donald Trump will attempt to seize ballots and voting machines in the 2026 midterm elections. Nearly 49 percent of respondents expressed worry about such interference, highlighting a growing fear of executive overreach that threatens the very foundation of democratic elections.

The poll, conducted in February 2026 with 1,570 American adults and a margin of error of 2.7 percent, shows that these concerns cut across party lines. While 81 percent of Democrats fear Trump might use the military to seize ballots and machines, 9 percent of Republicans and 18 percent of independents share this worry. In total, 29 percent are “very concerned” and 20 percent “somewhat concerned” about potential ballot seizures.

These fears are far from hypothetical. Trump himself admitted in January that he regretted not seizing ballots during the 2020 presidential election, a chilling admission of intent. Moreover, Trump’s recent executive order further escalates the threat by restricting mail-in voting and mandating a national list of eligible voters, effectively centralizing control over who can cast a ballot. This order also directs the U.S. Postal Service to send absentee ballots only to those on this list, a move widely denounced as unconstitutional and already facing legal challenges.

The poll also reveals strong opposition to any attempt by Trump to cancel or “redo” the 2026 midterms, underscoring broad public support for upholding democratic norms despite the administration’s attacks. Another survey from UMass Amherst reinforces this sentiment, finding that fewer than one in five Americans support federal takeover of elections.

This data underscores a critical moment in American democracy. Trump’s persistent threats and actions to undermine election integrity are not just political posturing—they are fueling genuine public alarm about the potential for authoritarian seizure of power. As the 2026 midterms approach, vigilance and resistance remain essential to safeguarding the right to free and fair elections.