President Donald Trump faces a legal hurdle as a federal judge blocks part of his executive order restricting mail-in voting.
A federal judge in Boston has temporarily blocked a portion of President Donald Trump’s executive order that restricts mail-in voting, preventing the U.S. Postal Service from determining voter eligibility. The administration announced new requirements for mail ballots, but the regulation will only take effect if the Supreme Court allows the order to proceed. Democratic-run states and civil rights groups argue that the administration lacks the authority to change election regulations, as the Constitution vests that power in the states or Congress. Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows defended the state's authority, noting that the Postal Service lacks experience in screening mail to decide who is a citizen. While the administration argued the restrictions are necessary to address concerns about voter fraud, Maine House Republicans supported the move as a common-sense measure. The temporary block remains in place for 14 days, with the administration appealing the decision to the Supreme Court.
Sources
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Trump Administration Appeals Ruling Halting Mail-In Voting Rules
The New York Times
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Judge issues new block on Trump’s sweeping restrictions on mail-in voting
The Washington Post
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The Supreme Court Isn’t Interested in Facts
The Atlantic
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Judge again blocks Trump mail ballot executive order in ruling that's likely to be swiftly appealed
PBS
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US Postal Service issues new rule for mail ballots, but its impact on the midterms is uncertain
AP News