The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff has stated that the U.S. military has no plans to deploy troops to polling places during November's midterm congressional elections.

Gen. Dan Caine wrote in a letter to Michigan Democratic Sen. Elissa Slotkin that the Joint Force has no plans to send federal military personnel or federalized National Guard members to polling places. He also confirmed there are no plans to use such personnel to seize ballots, voting machines, or other election-related material.

Caine, who advises Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and President Donald Trump on military matters, added that he has neither received nor anticipates receiving any unlawful order concerning the role of the Joint Force in the upcoming elections. The letter was obtained by The Associated Press.

Democratic lawmakers have raised concerns about potential military involvement at voting sites, citing fears of interference. Federal law generally prohibits the deployment of armed federal forces to election locations unless necessary to repel armed enemies of the United States. Any military role would most likely involve the National Guard under state control rather than federal authority.

Caine's statement aligns with longstanding military policy emphasizing an apolitical stance. Similar assurances were provided by previous Joint Chiefs chairmen ahead of prior elections.

Slotkin had written to both Caine and Hegseth seeking confirmation that the Department of Defense would not send federal troops to the polls or seize election materials. The response provides direct reassurance on the matter ahead of the November vote.