Federal Judge Extends Block on Trump Mail Voting Order

A federal judge on Friday extended her prohibition against the U.S. Postal Service implementing President Donald Trump's executive order seeking to limit mail voting during the midterms.

The ruling places another obstacle in the administration's path as the first states begin sending out mail ballots. The judge's decision comes as early voting begins in some areas. The order was initially issued in response to a lawsuit filed by the American Civil Liberties Union and others. The lawsuit argued that the Postal Service's proposed changes would disproportionately affect minority voters and voters in rural areas.

The judge stated that the proposed changes could cause 'major disenfranchisement.' The Trump administration had argued that the changes were necessary to prevent voter fraud and ensure the integrity of the election. The administration also claimed that the Postal Service had the authority to implement such changes. The judge, however, found that the administration had not demonstrated a sufficient need for the changes and that they would likely harm voters.

The ruling is a victory for voting rights advocates who have been fighting to protect access to mail-in voting. The midterms are scheduled for November. The Postal Service has not yet commented on the ruling.