Mail-in Voting Rules
Trump administration asks appeals court to lift block on mail-in voting rules
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The Trump administration asked a federal appeals court to lift a temporary order blocking a new mail-in voting rule set for the November elections Yahoo News. A lower-court judge blocked the rule at the request of Democratic-led states and voting rights groups. The temporary restraining order stays in place for 14 days while the judge considers a longer-term ban.
The new rule requires states to give the U.S. Postal Service lists of mail ballot recipients. All outbound and return ballot envelopes must have unique barcodes Reuters. The Justice Department says the rule fits USPS's legal and constitutional authority. If the appeals court denies the request, the administration may ask the Supreme Court to step in.
A Lower Court Blocks the New Mail Rules
A federal judge issued a temporary restraining order stopping the USPS from enforcing the voting rule US News. The order came after Democratic-led states and voting rights groups filed suit. They argue the rule creates barriers to mail-in voting and violates election laws. The temporary order lasts 14 days while the judge decides whether to issue a longer injunction that could block the rule for months.
Justice Department Seeks Quick Reversal in Appeals Court
The Department of Justice filed an urgent request with the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals Yahoo News. Justice officials argue the USPS has the power to create the barcode rule under federal law. They say the rule helps prevent fraud and ensures ballot tracking. The department wants the appeals court to overturn the lower court's order immediately to allow the rule to take effect before November.
What the New Rule Would Require States to Do
States would need to give USPS a complete list of all mail ballot recipients under the rule Reuters. Every ballot envelope sent out and returned must carry a unique barcode for tracking. The barcode system would let the Postal Service and election officials monitor ballots from mailing to arrival. Voting rights groups say the extra requirements could slow ballot processing and confuse voters in some states.
Supreme Court Could Be Next Step if Appeals Court Declines
If the 1st Circuit refuses to lift the blocking order, the Trump administration may ask the Supreme Court to intervene Yahoo News. The high court could act quickly given the November election timeline. Voting rights groups argue the rule burdens Democratic voters who rely more on mail ballots. The legal fight highlights how election procedures have become a flashpoint between Republicans and Democrats.
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