Secret group of US defence officials warns ten states that Trump could deploy troops and ICE agents at polling stations

The roughly 10 current and former Defense Department officials say their warnings reflect their own reading of Trump's public remarks, not any specific intelligence. They have briefed governors, election chiefs and lawmakers from both parties in states that could decide control of Congress. The report rests on two anonymous sources, which has fuelled scepticism online. White House spokesperson Lauren Bis insisted the administration is 'taking decisive action to protect our elections'.

The group also fears attempts to overturn certified results through voter-fraud allegations.

One member said state officials told them: 'We're concerned but we don't know what to do.'

The midterm elections take place on November 3, just two weeks away.