Transcript: Trump’s Sudden Early-Voting Push Reveals Midterm Worry
In a Daily Blast transcript, Greg Sargent and early-voting expert Michael McDonald discuss Donald Trump’s abrupt call for Republicans to vote early and by mail. McDonald says it may already be too late for many Republicans to request mail ballots, and current early-vote data points toward Democratic enthusiasm.
In the Oct. 22, 2026 Daily Blast transcript, host Greg Sargent interviews Michael McDonald of the University of Florida Election Lab. McDonald notes that Trump’s late push for early and mail voting conflicts with his earlier attacks on mail ballots as corrupt and harmful.
McDonald says the mail option is likely closing for many Republicans because election mail should be sent about ten days ahead. He also reports more than 16 million early votes, roughly 10 million by mail, with comparisons suggesting turnout could surpass 2018, the highest midterm rate since 1914.
The episode could shape how voters interpret late messaging about mail voting, especially Republicans who may have already missed ballot-request windows. It may also affect election officials’ workload and public trust as early-vote totals are compared with 2018. Because the data are preliminary, the discussion may influence campaign tactics and media narratives more than actual turnout outcomes.