No members left in US election commission

The move by the administration of US President Donald Trump to target the sitting members of the Election Assistance Commission (EAC), which plays a critical role in overseeing voting systems, has sparked controversy months before the midterm elections.

According to reports in the American press, the three remaining members of the four-member bipartisan commission have left their posts through different means. While the Republican member resigned, the two members serving under the Democratic Party quota had their tenures terminated via an email sent by the White House Presidential Personnel Office.

Under US law, the authority to appoint EAC members rests with the president. However, the timing of the decision, coming ahead of the midterm election process where debates over election security and election administration have intensified, has drawn attention.

Established under the Help America Vote Act (HAVA) of 2002, the EAC serves as a national clearinghouse for information on the administration of elections. The commission accredits facilities that test voting systems, certifies voting machines, and manages national mail-in voter registration forms.

Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes, who reacted to the decision, accused the Trump administration of creating uncertainty among election officials.

News Source: 12punto