House Democrats to Hold Election Security Hearings in California

House Democrats are organizing a series of informal hearings in California to address midterm election security following repeated threats of intervention in state-run voting processes by the Trump administration. According to reporting from the Los Angeles Times, these events are part of a broader party strategy to defend state voting systems against critiques and potential interference from the federal government.

The proceedings, described as shadow hearings, are scheduled to take place on April 7, 2026, in Los Angeles and on April 9, 2026, in San Francisco. These hearings will be led by Rep. Nancy Pelosi of San Francisco and Rep. Joseph Morelle of New York, who serves as the ranking Democrat on the House Administration Committee with oversight of elections.

Purpose of the Shadow Hearings

The hearings are designed to provide a platform for Democrats to highlight issues that the Republican-controlled House majority has declined to schedule for formal hearings in Washington. By conducting these sessions in California, Democrats intend to showcase testimony from election and voting experts who defend the security of state election systems.

The move is a direct response to allegations of widespread fraud made by President Trump and subsequent threats to intervene in state elections. While the Trump administration has called for increased federal oversight of state election processes, California officials and voting rights experts have rejected these claims, maintaining that state systems remain secure.

Democracy’s defenses are under attack. We will not let President Trump and House Republicans’ efforts to take over our elections prevail.

Rep. Joseph Morelle

Context and Precedent

The use of shadow hearings is not a new tactic for House Democrats. The Los Angeles Times noted that similar informal hearings were recently conducted in Los Angeles to address President Trump’s immigration raids. These events allow the minority party to publicly address policy concerns and gather testimony without the approval or participation of the Republican leadership.

Election security has emerged as a primary political flashpoint leading up to the midterm elections scheduled for later in 2026. The Democratic Party is focusing on protecting election infrastructure from disruption, while the Trump administration continues to level accusations of voter fraud.

Potential Outcomes

The findings and testimonies gathered during the April 7 and April 9 hearings may be used to shape future oversight efforts or influence federal legislation related to election security. By documenting expert testimony on the integrity of California’s voting systems, House Democrats aim to build a case against federal intervention in state-managed elections.