Judge Blocks Trump Order Restricting Mail-In Voting Eligibility

U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani ruled that a March 31, 2026, executive order issued by Donald Trump is legally void. The order sought to restrict mail-in voting for the November 3, 2026, midterm elections by requiring the United States Postal Service to deliver ballots only to individuals on a federal citizenship list created by the Social Security Administration and the Department of Homeland Security.

In the case of California v. Trump, brought by a coalition of 22 states and the District of Columbia, Judge Talwani determined that the president exceeded his authority and violated the separation of powers. The ruling blocks the administration from mandating that states submit voter lists 30 days before elections, using individualized ballot tracking barcodes, or prosecuting state election officials for non-compliance. It also invalidates efforts by Postmaster General David Steiner to withhold ballot delivery in states that refused to share voter data.

White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson defended the order, stating the administration is confident it will ultimately prevail in its implementation. Conversely, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer called the decision a victory for free and fair elections. Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes and Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows also challenged the order, arguing it created undue logistical burdens and usurped state authority over elections.