Democrat States Sue Trump Administration Over Executive Order Limiting Mail-In Voting

WASHINGTON – A coalition of Democrat-led states filed a federal lawsuit Thursday challenging President Donald Trump’s executive order that restricts the use of mail-in ballots in federal elections.

The suit, led by attorneys general from California, New York, Illinois, and several other blue states, claims the order exceeds presidential authority and violates the Constitution by interfering with state election administration. The order, signed last week, directs federal agencies to enforce stricter rules on mail-in voting, including requirements for voter ID verification, postmark deadlines, and limits on unsolicited ballot distribution.

Trump’s directive aims to reduce opportunities for fraud by requiring ballots to be received by Election Day and mandating proof of citizenship for mail-in registration in federal races. The administration argues the changes are necessary to restore confidence in elections following widespread concerns about 2020 and 2022 voting practices.

The suing states contend the order unconstitutionally overrides state laws governing elections and infringes on states’ rights under the Elections Clause. They are seeking an immediate injunction to block implementation.

Attorney General Pam Bondi, speaking for the administration, called the lawsuit “predictable political theater” and said the executive order is a lawful exercise of federal authority to protect the integrity of national elections.

The case is expected to move quickly through the courts, with potential appeals reaching the Supreme Court before the 2026 midterms. Several Republican-led states have signaled support for the administration’s position.

This is the latest legal battle over election rules as the Trump administration seeks to tighten voting procedures nationwide.3