Trump Administration Appeals to Supreme Court for Mail Ballot Restrictions

The Trump administration renewed its appeal to the Supreme Court on September 6, 2026, after a federal judge blocked new restrictions on mail ballots ahead of the midterm elections. U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani extended an order against the Postal Service enforcing President Donald Trump's executive order for the November elections. Solicitor General John Sauer stated in the filing that ballots have already begun to be mailed in North Carolina, with more states set to start mailing ballots soon, including Alabama on September 9 and at least five states the week of September 13. Sauer expressed concern that the injunction risks causing confusion and chaos, as it makes compliance with the new rules voluntary rather than mandatory. This appeal marks the third time the administration has sought intervention from the Supreme Court, which has allowed the plan to move forward but has not ruled on its legality. The outcome of this legal battle could significantly impact the elections, as nearly one-third of U.S. voters cast mail ballots. Democratic states and voting rights groups argue that the changes are unconstitutional, while election officials indicate there is insufficient time to adjust their systems to comply with the new directives. The filing also noted that eligibility for mail-in and absentee voting will continue to be governed by state law, with state and local officials determining voter eligibility. Trump has previously sought to limit mail voting, despite using it himself, and has made unsubstantiated claims that mail balloting contributed to his 2020 election loss.