On Thursday, July 17th, 2026, President Trump claimed that China conducted what he described as "the largest compromise of election data in history" through the "illicit acquisition of 220 million U.S. voter files."

However, voter data is accessible across all 50 U.S. states, with 20 states and Washington, D.C., providing voter information through simple public requests, purchases, or online downloads. Fifteen states require users to state a political or research purpose or meet other conditions, while others limit access to specific groups such as candidates or government officials.

The voter data released publicly typically includes registered voters' names, mailing addresses, phone numbers, and political party affiliations. More sensitive information, such as Social Security numbers, is generally kept confidential.

In his speech, President Trump asserted that China has "names, addresses, phone numbers, political party preferences and other sensitive data that would be needed to register to vote and engage in other nefarious activities," a claim that is not entirely accurate.

David Becker, executive director of the Center for Election Innovation and Research and a CBS News election law contributor, stated there is no evidence that the Chinese could link voter roll information with Department of Motor Vehicles or Social Security numbers. Such a match would be necessary to create or alter voter registrations fraudulently. Becker also noted that the 2002 Help America Vote Act requires Americans to have a current and valid driver's license or provide Social Security information to register to vote.

This context highlights that while voter data is widely accessible, the most sensitive information needed for voter registration fraud is protected.

Sources