National Emergency Declared to Protect U.S. Bulk-Power System from Foreign Threats

On August 26, 2026, President Donald J. Trump declared a national emergency to address vulnerabilities in the U.S. bulk-power system, which is critical for national security and economic stability. The emergency declaration was prompted by increasing threats from foreign actors exploiting weaknesses in foreign-produced electric equipment. The declaration prohibits the acquisition and operation of such foreign equipment, citing risks of malicious cyber activities and supply chain vulnerabilities. The administration aims to secure the integrity and reliability of the bulk-power system, which supports national defense and emergency services. The situation has escalated due to the growing reliance on foreign sources for essential electric equipment, which could potentially contain digital backdoors. This emergency response underscores the urgent need to protect critical infrastructure from foreign interference. The declaration is part of broader efforts to enhance national security and rebuild key industrial supply chains.

Key Points: • President Trump declared a national emergency on August 26, 2026, to protect the bulk-power system. • The emergency addresses vulnerabilities from foreign-produced electric equipment that may contain backdoors. • The declaration prohibits transactions involving foreign bulk-power system equipment to mitigate risks.