A new iPhone feature could shake up the 2026 midterms. Here's why Republicans are worried.
What’s Changing in iOS 26?
Apple’s iOS 26, rolling out mid-September 2025, introduces text message filtering from unknown senders.📩 No notifications unless users check manually.
The Goal Behind the Update
Apple says the filter is designed to cut down on spam, scams, and unwanted messages — protecting users from digital noise.
The Political Fallout
But political campaigns rely heavily on mass texting — especially from unfamiliar or rotating numbers.Campaigns fear they’ll land in the “junk” folder.
GOP Sounds the Alarm
But political campaigns rely heavily on mass texting — especially from unfamiliar or rotating numbers.Campaigns fear they’ll land in the “junk” folder.
A 2026 Midterms Concern
With midterms approaching, the GOP says the update could silence key messaging, especially in close races where every dollar — and vote — counts.
Apple’s Response?
Apple has yet to directly address political concerns, maintaining the feature is about user control and privacy, not politics.
What Comes Next?
Will Apple tweak the feature before launch?Or will campaigns need to adapt fast to avoid digital dead zones during the 2026 election cycle?