Notwithstanding the state role in elections, Congress has authority to
affect the administration of elections in certain ways. Congressional
authority to legislate in this area derives from various constitutional
sources, depending upon the type of election. With regard to the
administration of federal elections, Congress has constitutional authority
over both congressional and presidential elections.
• Congress’ authority to regulate congressional elections derives
primarily from Article I, Section 4, Clause 1 of the Constitution (known
as the Elections Clause). The Elections Clause provides that the states
will prescribe the “Times, Places and Manner” of congressional
elections, and that Congress may “make or alter” the states’ regulations
at any time, except as to the places of choosing Senators.
https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-01-470.pdf