The National Guard and Elections: Legal Authorities and Guidance for Judge Advocates
Protect Democracy (2026)
Domestic military missions during election season raise unique issues that require careful examination. Given the National Guard’s domestic presence, National Guard judge advocates and command staff must know the laws and regulations concerning the military and elections. Retired state Adjutants General and Judge Advocates General from the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, and Navy have published practical guidance for analyzing potential domestic missions during an ongoing election.