UPDATE: The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) is in a state of crisis as budget cuts and political pressures severely undermine its ability to protect U.S. election systems. Just announced, recent reports indicate that CISA is struggling to maintain its role amid increasing cyber threats from foreign adversaries like Russia and China.
As of November 10, 2025, the agency has faced significant layoffs and funding reductions, leaving it vulnerable at a critical juncture for American democracy. The Verge reports that these internal fractures could jeopardize election security just as midterm elections approach. Experts warn that the erosion of CISA’s capabilities may leave election infrastructure exposed to attacks and misinformation campaigns.
Multiple divisions within CISA, including the crucial Stakeholder Engagement Division, are facing layoffs, with a 54-person reduction in force confirmed by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Critics argue that these cuts dismantle essential operational capabilities, rather than refocusing efforts as intended. Former South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, now in charge of cyber policy, has pledged to enhance national cybersecurity, yet the ongoing cuts have raised alarms among cybersecurity professionals.
Mike Hamilton, a cybersecurity veteran, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “What’s at risk are confidential communications about commerce and trade deals and what the military is doing.” These vulnerabilities expose new cracks in America’s cyber defenses, particularly as misinformation and foreign interference attempts surge.
Recent reports highlight that CISA staff responsible for election security were placed on administrative leave earlier in the year, jeopardizing support to state and local offices. A February 2025 memo revealed that assistance efforts for securing elections were frozen, which sent shockwaves through the cybersecurity community.
The impact of the ongoing government shutdown has further intensified these challenges. Just five days ago, Nextgov/FCW reported that DHS plans to proceed with layoffs at CISA, despite a court injunction. This means that a significant portion of CISA’s workforce may be furloughed, with estimates suggesting around 65% of staff could be sent home. This drastic reduction has left federal networks significantly vulnerable to cyber threats.
The Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC) is also affected, as funding has transitioned to a paid model during the shutdown, further complicating the agency’s ability to share critical threat intelligence with state officials.
As the crisis unfolds, the politicization of CISA has drawn widespread criticism. Observers note that the agency’s ability to respond effectively to threats has been severely compromised, with a growing sentiment on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) that state officials are now hiding cyber threats from the federal government.
The ramifications of these decisions are profound, as experts warn that the weakening of CISA’s operations could undermine the integrity of upcoming elections. The agency’s future hinges on whether it can recover its original mandate and restore public trust in its cybersecurity framework.
As developments continue, eyes will be on CISA and its leadership to address these issues and ensure that America’s election systems are adequately protected. The impact of this crisis is not just a matter of policy but one of national security and public confidence heading into a turbulent election season.