Key Takeaways
• Despite falling approval, Trump could become more dangerous in his lame duck period.
• An ex-GOP strategist warns Trump is planning a “siege” on U.S. elections and institutions.
• The president is placing election deniers in key roles, including Heather Honey at Homeland Security.
• Red state lawmakers and federal courts may face pressure to overturn future election results.
Donald Trump’s popularity has dropped to 40 percent. Yet, an ex-Republican strategist believes his lame duck days could bring chaos. Even if his party loses badly in 2026, Trump may not fade away. Instead, he could use his final months in power to set up a siege against U.S. democracy.
Why a Lame Duck Period Matters
A lame duck president is one whose time in office is winding down and cannot run again. Often, such leaders slow down as power shifts away. However, history shows lame ducks can still cause big problems.
In 2020, Trump’s lame duck weeks saw intense plans and plots to overturn election results. This period gave him space and time to push conspiracies. Now, with four more years of influence and allies inside government, his next lame duck could look even more fierce.
Trump Prepares His Siege Team
Rick Wilson, a former GOP strategist and co-founder of a well-known group against Trump, warns that the president is already building his siege. For example, Trump appointed Heather Honey as deputy assistant secretary for election integrity at Homeland Security. Honey once worked with an anti-voting group in Pennsylvania. She is known for pushing false claims that the 2020 election was stolen.
Moreover, Trump has signaled he will lean on other officials who doubt fair vote counts. By filling agencies with his loyalists, he hopes to use federal power to sway state-level rules and investigations. In practice, that could mean more pressure on local election boards or even quest ions at polling places.
A Threat to Midterm Integrity
If Republicans lose control of Congress in the 2026 midterms, Trump’s influence could shift to state lawmakers and courts. He might urge governors or legislative leaders in red states to toss out results they dislike. Transition words like however and therefore show how one move leads to another in Trump’s plan.
For instance, when election results come in, Trump could call on sympathetic courts to block certifications. He might also push state legislatures to appoint alternate electors outside the normal vote totals. Such steps would echo his 2020 approach but on a broader scale.
Additionally, key figures in the House and Senate could refuse to seat lawmakers who oppose him. If a few votes hinge on contested races, Trump might use that leverage to bring his foes to heel. He gains power by creating chaos and then offering to fix it.
What Could Happen Next
First, watch red state legislatures. They could pass sweeping laws to delay or invalidate vote counts at Trump’s request. Next, keep an eye on lower courts. A friendly judge might grant an injunction halting election certification.
Then, in Congress, the speaker or a committee chair could block seating new members. That tactic would fuel a national crisis and bring more attention to Trump’s claims. As the political machinery grinds, Trump would stand ready to claim victimhood and rally supporters.
In addition, look for new rules aimed at mail-in ballots or drop boxes. By tightening procedures, Trump’s allies can cite “security concerns” to challenge valid votes. Each small challenge paves the way for larger battles.
Ultimately, Trump needs drama. He thrives on chaos and uses it to build loyalty. The more he stirs fear of election theft, the more fervent his base becomes. Then, when real votes arrive, he can cry foul again.
Staying Alert During the Lame Duck
Although a lame duck often loses pushback, citizens and officials can still fight back. State attorneys general and nonpartisan watchdogs will play a big role. They can file lawsuits to block unconstitutional moves.
In addition, public awareness matters. When voters, journalists, and civic groups call out threats, they make it harder for extreme plans to slip by. Every time a corrupt official tries to bend rules, people need to speak up. That slows down any attempt at a quick power grab.
Finally, federal agencies with internal checks can refuse illegal orders. Career staffers who value the rule of law may resign or push back. Their courage will matter more than ever in the final chapters of any lame duck presidency.
FAQs
What does “lame duck” mean in politics?
A lame duck is an elected official whose power is waning, usually because they cannot be re-elected. They serve out the rest of their term but lose much influence.
Why does Trump’s lame duck period worry experts?
Experts fear that Trump will use his final months to unsettle elections and government agencies. His past actions show he plans bold moves even without future campaigns.
Who is Heather Honey and why does she matter?
Heather Honey works at the Department of Homeland Security for election issues. She backed false claims of 2020 voter fraud, making her a key player in Trump’s strategy.
How can the public counter a lame duck siege?
Citizens can stay informed, report threats to fair elections, and support watchdog groups. Public pressure and legal challenges can block extreme actions.