DHS Election Chief's Ties to 2020 Conspiracy Theories Raise Security Concerns

David Harvilicz's past associations and public statements questioning election integrity have experts worried about his role overseeing election infrastructure.

Mar. 18, 2026 at 1:21am

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David Harvilicz, currently serving as an assistant secretary at the Department of Homeland Security, is responsible for policy related to the nation's election infrastructure, including voting machines. His role has drawn scrutiny due to his past associations and public statements questioning the integrity of recent elections.

Why it matters

The appointment of an individual with a history of promoting election conspiracy theories to a position overseeing election security raises significant questions about impartiality and public trust in the electoral process. This is particularly concerning given the ongoing efforts to relitigate past election results.

The details

Harvilicz co-founded Tranquility AI with James Penrose, who played a role in promoting debunked conspiracy theories alleging hacked voting machines influenced the outcome of the 2020 presidential election. Penrose also assisted in efforts to seize voting machines in an attempt to overturn the 2020 results. On social media, Harvilicz has advocated for eliminating voting machines, stating they are 'eminently vulnerable to exploitation.' He has also questioned the validity of Democratic electoral victories and encouraged Republicans to overhaul electoral systems.

  • In 2020, Harvilicz purchased a $3.3 million home outside of Los Angeles, which was later destroyed in the Palisades Fire.
  • In a March post, Harvilicz called for a ban on voting machines in all federal elections.

The players

David Harvilicz

An assistant secretary at the Department of Homeland Security, responsible for policy related to the nation's election infrastructure, including voting machines.

James Penrose

The co-founder of Tranquility AI with David Harvilicz, who played a role in promoting debunked conspiracy theories alleging hacked voting machines influenced the outcome of the 2020 presidential election.

Heather Honey

The deputy assistant secretary of election integrity, who previously led the Election Integrity Network, a group that has challenged the legitimacy of American election systems.

Samantha Anderson

A data specialist reporting to Harvilicz, who previously worked to elect Donald Trump through the America First Policy Institute.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.