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Will the Feds Be a Nuisance or a Menace at the Polls in November? — John McCormack

Sep 8, 2026 · 11m

Summary

This episode examines a confrontation in Wyoming where federal DOJ observers allegedly intimidated poll workers and demanded access to voting machines during a primary, prompting Governor Mark Gordon to criticize the federal intrusion. The piece contrasts local officials' successful resistance with the DOJ's claim of routine monitoring, while experts debate whether this signals broader federal interference in the 2026 midterms. It also analyzes the low likelihood of the FBI seizing uncounted ballots due to logistical and legal constraints, noting that while Congress retains authority over e…

Topics discussed

Introduction and article overview DOJ observers confront poll workers in Wyoming County clerk details DOJ demands and lack of credentials Governor Gordon criticizes federal interference DOJ Assistant AG defends routine monitoring Clerk disputes DOJ account of equipment inquiries Context: Wyoming as a Trump stronghold Expert analysis on unusual nature of incident Speculation on DOJ motives and training issues Background on contested House race and Chuck Gray DOJ notification process and local response Former AZ official compares incident to past norms Concerns about Trump's obsession with 2020 election Review of 2020 ballot seizures and failed investigations History of calls to seize voting machines Risks of seizing uncounted ballots Logistical constraints on federal seizure of ballots Legal barriers to FBI hot pursuit claims Congressional authority to refuse seating members Senate vs House dynamics in certifying elections Role of US Clerk and dueling certificates Historical precedent for certification disputes Conclusion and final risk assessment
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