John,

I don’t use alarmist language lightly. And I don’t speculate without evidence.

But as Minnesota’s chief elections officer, I do feel a responsibility to be honest with you — and to plan ahead.

This week, POLITICO quoted me in a national story about election officials across the country preparing for the possibility of federal interference in the 2026 elections. I’m not predicting interference, but I am planning for that possibility.

That’s my job. And I need your help to do it. Will you chip in $10 or more this week to help me protect democracy?

Here’s why election officials — Republicans and Democrats — are concerned.

The Trump Administration has demanded access to state voter rolls, including private voter data. When states followed the law and said no, they were sued. Then, federal agents raided a local election office in Georgia. And the President has openly talked about “nationalizing the voting.”

None of this is normal.

In Minnesota, local officials, neighbors, and community members who follow the law and take their responsibilities seriously run elections. Our elections are fair, accurate, honest, and secure, and nearly 80% of eligible voters participate because they trust the system.

My responsibility is to protect that trust before Election Day, not after.

If you believe Minnesota’s elections must remain free from intimidation and political interference, I’m asking you to stand with me and chip in today.

Thank you,

Steve