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Emmer Defends State-Controlled Elections Amid Shutdown Talks

2/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Rep. Tom Emmer (R-Minn.), the House Majority Whip, said federal elections are administered by states and will remain so.
He responded to President Donald Trump’s suggestion to nationalize elections during an appearance on CBS Mornings.
Emmer attributed the partial government shutdown to Democrats, who he says are seeking significant changes for ICE agents in exchange for their votes on the spending bill.

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Story summary

Rep. Tom Emmer (R-Minn.), the House Majority Whip, said federal elections are administered by states and will remain so.
He responded to President Donald Trump’s suggestion to nationalize elections during an appearance on CBS Mornings.
Emmer attributed the partial government shutdown to Democrats, who he says are seeking significant changes for ICE agents in exchange for their votes on the spending bill.