WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump has used a primetime address to question the legitimacy of U.S. elections and push for more restrictive voting laws. The Republican president on Thursday (July 16, 2026) revisited debunked theories about his 2020 loss to Democrat Joe Biden, despite ongoing voter concerns about other pressing issues. Trump claimed election interference but provided no evidence of manipulated votes. Former intelligence official Sue Gordon calls Trump’s speech “dangerous.” Some networks choose not to air the address live. Democrats accuse Trump of trying to discredit the upcoming 2026 midterm elections. Democrats argue Trump’s claims are baseless and aim to sow confusion.
President Donald Trump speaks in the East Room of the White House, Thursday, July 16, 2026, in Washington. (Saul Loeb/Pool via AP)
Trump doubles down on US election attacks in his primetime speech
Jul 17, 2026 | 6:00 AM






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