hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Denounces presidential statements about federal takeover of elections.
Sponsors: Senators Markey (D-MA), Blumenthal (D-CT), Schiff (D-CA).
Introduced in the Senate, no vote yet.
This resolution, sponsored by Democratic Senators Edward Markey, Richard Blumenthal, and Adam Schiff, aims to formally denounce former President Donald J. Trump's statements suggesting he could 'nationalize' or take direct control over federal elections. It asserts that the Constitution assigns primary control of elections to states and Congress, not the President. The bill has just been introduced in the Senate, meaning it is at the very beginning of the legislative process.
Introduced Feb 11, 2026
This resolution has been introduced in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Rules and Administration. For it to proceed, the committee would need to consider it, and then the full Senate would vote on it. As a resolution, it expresses the official opinion or 'sense' of the Senate but does not become law or change existing statutes, so it does not go to the House or the President.
If this resolution passes, the Senate would formally assert that states and Congress, not the President, control federal elections, reaffirming the current constitutional structure. It would also explicitly reject any presidential attempt to unilaterally control elections as unconstitutional and without legal effect. Furthermore, the resolution declares that such actions could be considered grounds for impeachment, providing a clear stance from the Senate on this issue. These impacts are declaratory, expressing the Senate's position rather than changing laws.
Supporters Say
Supporters argue this resolution upholds the Constitution's assignment of election authority to states and Congress, protecting democratic principles.
Critics Say
Critics might argue the resolution is politically motivated or mischaracterizes past statements by the former President.
Those in favor, primarily the sponsors, believe this resolution is crucial for preserving federalism and the rule of law by clearly stating the Senate's position on election administration. They assert that any presidential effort to seize control of elections undermines public trust and constitutional order. While the bill text does not mention critics, those who oppose it might contend that it is unnecessary political posturing or that the former President's statements are being misinterpreted, or that such actions are not truly a threat.