Notice September 03, 2025 Doc #2025-16943

Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to Foreign Interference in or Undermining Public Confidence in United States Elections

Foreign Policy Public Safety Technology Government Reform

💡

In Simple Terms

The President is keeping a special rule to stop other countries from messing with U.S. elections. This rule will stay for another year.

Summary

On August 29, 2025, President Donald Trump issued a notice to continue the national emergency concerning foreign interference in U.S. elections. This emergency was initially declared on September 12, 2018, through Executive Order 13848, due to the threat posed by foreign entities attempting to undermine public confidence in the electoral process. Despite no evidence of foreign powers altering election outcomes, the risk remains significant due to the vulnerability of digital and internet-based communications. The continuation extends the national emergency for one more year to address these ongoing threats to national security and foreign policy.

Official Record

Federal Register Published

Signed by the President

August 29, 2025

Published in Federal Register

View on Federal Register View Printed Version (PDF)

September 03, 2025

Document #2025-16943

Analysis & Impact

💡 How This May Affect You

The continuation of the national emergency regarding foreign interference in U.S. elections primarily focuses on maintaining vigilance against external threats to the electoral process. While this action is largely about national security and safeguarding democratic systems, it can have various indirect effects on different groups of Americans. Here’s how it might impact different segments of the population:

Working Families and Individuals

For most working families and individuals, the direct impact may not be immediately noticeable in daily life. However, by aiming to secure electoral processes, this action helps ensure that their votes are counted accurately and that democratic processes remain robust. This can contribute to greater confidence in election outcomes, which indirectly supports political stability—a factor that can influence economic conditions and job security.

Small Business Owners

Small business owners might experience indirect effects related to cybersecurity. With a heightened focus on preventing foreign interference, there could be increased emphasis on cybersecurity practices that affect all sectors. Small businesses might be encouraged or required to adopt stronger cybersecurity measures, potentially increasing operational costs. However, these measures can also protect businesses from cyber threats, which could otherwise lead to financial losses.

Students and Recent Graduates

For students and recent graduates, particularly those studying or working in fields related to cybersecurity, information technology, or political science, this continuation might present increased opportunities for employment or internships in government agencies or private companies focusing on election security. Additionally, educational institutions might emphasize the importance of digital literacy and critical thinking skills to combat misinformation, which can be a valuable part of their education.

Retirees and Seniors

Retirees and seniors might benefit from increased efforts to secure elections and combat misinformation. Many seniors rely on traditional media and may be more susceptible to misinformation campaigns. Efforts to secure elections and improve information accuracy can help ensure that seniors have access to reliable information when making voting decisions.

Different Geographic Regions

Urban Areas: Urban areas, often being more densely populated and technologically integrated, might see increased campaigns or initiatives aimed at enhancing digital literacy and cybersecurity awareness among residents. Local governments may also engage more actively in ensuring election security.
Suburban Areas: Suburban residents might experience similar effects as urban areas, with local community centers or libraries potentially offering programs or workshops on recognizing misinformation and understanding cybersecurity basics.
Rural Areas: In rural areas, where internet access might be less reliable, efforts to combat misinformation could focus on improving digital infrastructure and ensuring that rural voters have access to accurate information. Additionally, rural regions might see increased federal support for local election offices to bolster their security measures.

Conclusion

While the continuation of the national emergency regarding foreign interference in elections primarily addresses national security concerns, its indirect effects can influence various aspects of American life. By enhancing election security, the action aims to protect democratic processes, which is fundamental to maintaining public trust and political stability. This stability can, in turn, affect economic conditions, job opportunities, and the overall well-being of different population groups across the country.

🏢 Key Stakeholders

Primary Beneficiaries:

National Security Agencies: Agencies like the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are primary beneficiaries as the continuation of the national emergency allows them to maintain heightened vigilance and resources dedicated to countering foreign interference. This action underscores their mandate to protect the integrity of U.S. elections and national security.
Cybersecurity Industry: Companies specializing in cybersecurity solutions benefit from increased demand for their services to safeguard election infrastructure. The continuation of the national emergency highlights the ongoing need for robust cybersecurity measures, leading to potential contracts and collaborations with government agencies.

Those Who May Face Challenges:

Foreign Entities and Individuals: Foreign actors attempting to influence U.S. elections may face increased scrutiny and potential sanctions. The continuation of the national emergency signals a sustained commitment to identifying and penalizing those involved in election interference.
Social Media Platforms: Companies like Facebook, Twitter, and others may encounter increased pressure to monitor and manage disinformation on their platforms. This action reinforces the expectation that they play a proactive role in preventing foreign interference and maintaining public confidence in elections.

Industries, Sectors, or Professions Most Impacted:

Election Technology Vendors: Companies providing election infrastructure and technology may need to comply with stricter security protocols and face increased oversight. This action underscores the critical role of secure election systems in maintaining public confidence.
Media and Communication Sectors: These sectors may experience heightened scrutiny regarding the dissemination of information related to elections. The national emergency emphasizes the importance of responsible reporting and the potential impact of misinformation on public confidence.

Government Agencies or Departments Involved in Implementation:

Department of Homeland Security (DHS): As a key agency in protecting critical infrastructure, DHS plays a central role in coordinating efforts to safeguard election systems from foreign interference.
Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI): Responsible for assessing threats to U.S. elections, ODNI will continue to provide intelligence and analysis to support the national emergency declaration.

Interest Groups, Advocacy Organizations, or Lobbies with Strong Positions:

Civil Liberties Organizations: Groups such as the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) may express concerns about potential overreach and the impact of emergency powers on civil liberties. They advocate for transparency and checks on government authority.
Election Integrity Advocacy Groups: Organizations focused on election security and integrity, like the Brennan Center for Justice, support measures to protect elections from foreign interference. They view the continuation of the national emergency as essential to ensuring free and fair elections.

📈 What to Expect

Short-term (3-12 months):

Immediate Implementation Steps:
The continuation of the national emergency will involve reinforcing existing measures under Executive Order 13848. This includes maintaining sanctions against individuals or entities found to interfere in U.S. elections, enhancing cybersecurity protocols, and increasing coordination among federal agencies like the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Early Visible Changes or Effects:
In the short term, we might see increased public awareness campaigns about foreign interference risks, possibly leading to heightened vigilance among election officials and the general public. Enhanced security measures around upcoming elections, such as the 2026 midterms, will likely be implemented, including more robust monitoring of election infrastructure and social media platforms for disinformation.
Potential Initial Reactions or Challenges:
There could be political debate over the necessity and implications of continuing the national emergency, with some viewing it as essential for national security, while others may argue it infringes on civil liberties or question its effectiveness. Additionally, technology companies might face pressure to comply with government directives to curb disinformation, potentially leading to legal or ethical challenges regarding free speech.

Long-term (1-4 years):

Broader Systemic Changes:
Over the long term, the continuation of the national emergency could lead to permanent enhancements in the U.S. election security infrastructure. This might include the development of more sophisticated cybersecurity technologies and protocols, as well as the establishment of more comprehensive frameworks for international cooperation to prevent foreign interference.
Cumulative Effects on Society, Economy, or Policy Landscape:
Sustained efforts to combat election interference could bolster public confidence in the electoral process, potentially increasing voter turnout and engagement. Economically, the focus on cybersecurity could stimulate growth in the tech sector, particularly in companies specializing in security solutions. However, there may also be economic repercussions if sanctions disrupt international trade or diplomatic relations.
Potential for Modification, Expansion, or Reversal by Future Administrations:
Future administrations might choose to modify or expand these measures based on their assessment of the threat landscape. If foreign interference remains a significant concern, there could be calls to institutionalize certain emergency measures into permanent legislation. Conversely, if the perceived threat diminishes, there might be pressure to scale back or reverse some actions to restore a sense of normalcy and reduce government overreach.

In summary, the continuation of the national emergency regarding foreign election interference is likely to result in immediate security enhancements and political debate, while potentially fostering long-term improvements in election integrity and cybersecurity. However, the policy's evolution will heavily depend on the geopolitical climate and domestic political dynamics in the coming years.

📚 Historical Context

The continuation of the national emergency concerning foreign interference in U.S. elections, as noted in the Federal Register on September 3, 2025, fits into a broader historical context of presidential actions aimed at safeguarding American democratic processes from external threats. This action, rooted in Executive Order 13848 declared on September 12, 2018, reflects ongoing concerns about the integrity of elections, a theme that has periodically emerged in American history.

Similar Actions by Previous Presidents:

Cold War Era Measures: During the Cold War, especially under Presidents like Dwight D. Eisenhower and John F. Kennedy, the U.S. government was highly vigilant about foreign influence, primarily from the Soviet Union. Measures included counterintelligence operations and public awareness campaigns to combat propaganda.
Post-9/11 Security Enhancements: Following the September 11, 2001 attacks, President George W. Bush declared a national emergency to address terrorism threats, significantly expanding surveillance and security measures through legislation like the USA PATRIOT Act. This reflected a shift towards preemptive measures to counteract potential threats.
2016 Election Concerns: The 2016 U.S. Presidential election highlighted vulnerabilities in electoral systems to cyber threats, leading to increased scrutiny and the implementation of cybersecurity measures. President Barack Obama imposed sanctions on Russia in response to election interference, setting a precedent for addressing foreign influence.

Building Upon, Modifying, or Reversing Existing Policies:

The continuation of this national emergency builds upon Executive Order 13848, reinforcing the stance that foreign interference remains a significant threat. It modifies the approach by acknowledging evolving digital threats, emphasizing the need for ongoing vigilance in the face of technological advancements.

Relevant Historical Precedents or Patterns:

Technological Evolution and Security: As technology has advanced, so too have the methods of interference. The digital age has introduced new vulnerabilities, much like the introduction of radio and television did in earlier decades, prompting adaptations in policy to safeguard election integrity.
Bipartisan Recognition of Threats: Historically, both Democratic and Republican administrations have recognized the threat of foreign interference, albeit sometimes with differing emphases or strategies. This continuity underscores a shared understanding of the importance of protecting democratic institutions.

Unique or Noteworthy Aspects:

Digital Era Challenges: The current focus on digital threats, such as hacking and disinformation campaigns, marks a significant evolution from past concerns primarily centered on physical espionage or propaganda. This reflects the unique challenges posed by the internet and social media in today's political landscape.
Ongoing Vigilance: The continuation of this national emergency for several years highlights the persistent nature of the threat. Unlike past emergencies that often had a clear endpoint, the indefinite nature of digital threats necessitates ongoing assessments and responses.

In summary, the continuation of the national emergency concerning foreign interference in U.S. elections is part of a long-standing pattern of presidential actions aimed at protecting the integrity of American democracy. While building on historical precedents, it also addresses the unique challenges posed by modern technology, demonstrating an adaptive approach to national security in the digital age.