Federal efforts to obtain voter data could lead to erroneous removals, administrative overload, and litigation that disrupts election preparation. Ongoing challenges to mail-in voting and electronic voting machines — contradicting elections experts and administrators of both parties — create confusion and lay the groundwork for contesting results. Heightened federal law enforcement activity in targeted jurisdictions could deter voter registration, canvassing, and public campaign events.

Federal law enforcement deployments near polling places or election offices could suppress turnout or disrupt operations, whether intentional or not. Election officials and poll workers face escalating threats and harassment, increasing the risk of staffing shortages and operational errors on the day that matters most.

Claims of irregularities could be used to justify seizure of ballots or machines, unwarranted federal investigations during vote counting, or political pressure on state and local officials — disrupting the “best practice” ballot chain of custody needed to ensure accurate results. In a close election, certification disputes in even a small number of districts could delay or prevent the seating of duly elected members of Congress on January 3, 2027.

Proactively reach out to the secretary of state’s office or county elections clerk to express support for their efforts to run accessible, secure and fair elections. Ask them how you and the business community more generally can be supportive of their efforts.

Encourage employees to register to vote and to serve as poll workers, and make it as simple as possible for them to do so. Consider best corporate practices to facilitate participation like paid time off. Host programs aimed at enhancing civic engagement of employees. The Wisconsin Business Leaders for Democracy share best practices.

The bipartisan oversight and the layers of security, reconciliation, and audits throughout the process make U.S. elections safe, secure and accurate. When people understand how elections, vote-tabulation and results certification work, they become advocates in their own circles. Educating Americans of all stripes and helping them grow trust in our country’s elections is a powerful antidote to disinformation and distrust.

Engage proactively, in advance of the elections, with other business leaders and business associations (including chambers of commerce) to discuss when collective business leader action, either public or private, would be warranted. Make a specific plan for what that would look like, including which influential decision-makers could be engaged and when public statements would be warranted.

Prepare internal and external messaging that emphasizes patience, respect for election processes, and trust in local and state election officials during vote counting and certification. Be ready for coordinated business leader action, should the need arise, including private outreach or public statements, based on pre-identified criteria and in consultation with peers and relevant stakeholders.