Radio Atlantic Will 2026 Be a Fair Fight?
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Nov 6, 2025 David A. Graham, a Staff writer at The Atlantic specializing in national politics, discusses pressing threats to election integrity. He highlights the challenges Democrats face as Republicans may manipulate election rules, using tactics that intimidate voters and candidates. Graham examines potential scenarios for 2026, including the effects of gerrymandering and the risks of chaos on election night. He warns about the systemic pressures and outlines the importance of vigilance in preserving free and fair elections amidst emerging authoritarian trends.
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DOJ Monitors As A Dry Run
- Graham points to DOJ sending monitors to New Jersey and California as a conspicuous example from this week's voting.
- He and election officials view such moves as testing methods that could be scaled in 2026.
Redistricting Became A National Fight
- California's Proposition 50 aimed both to grab attention and blunt Republican gerrymanders nationwide.
- Graham says such nationalized redistricting fights fuel a race to the bottom and hurt voter representation.
Prepare For Ambiguous Election Nights
- Graham warns that ambiguity on election night lets leaders claim premature victory and deploy pressure tactics.
- He implies officials should prepare for legal, military, and messaging pressures to preserve counting integrity.