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2026-09-18

This week

U.S. election administration news in the last 48 hours: polling place changes, ballot proc

In a significant procedural development ahead of the midterm elections, the U.S. Supreme Court blocked President Trump's proposed changes to mail-in ballot rules sought by his administration. The deci…

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RESEARCH: U.S. election administration news in the last 48 hours: polling place changes, ballot proc

RESEARCH: U.S. election administration news in the last 48 hours

Summary

In a significant procedural development ahead of the midterm elections, the U.S. Supreme Court blocked President Trump's proposed changes to mail-in ballot rules sought by his administration. The decision prevents new U.S. Postal Service (USPS) regulations that would have required states to submit voter lists, use special barcodes, and potentially risk undelivered ballots from being implemented before November. Former Federal Election Commission (FEC) Chairman Trey Trainor noted that while the USPS moved swiftly enough to enact these changes, lawsuits filed by several states delayed their rollout. Justice Samuel Alito dissented, arguing that states challenging the rule were partly responsible for delays they later cited. The administration maintains its commitment to free and fair elections despite the ruling.

Key Developments

  • 2026-09-15 — The U.S. Supreme Court declined to allow new USPS rules proposed by the Trump administration concerning mail-in ballots, including requirements for voter list submissions, barcode usage, and risk of undelivered ballots, to take effect before the midterm elections. Bakersfield Now
  • 2026-09-15 — Former FEC Chairman Trey Trainor stated that the USPS acted quickly enough for implementation before the election, but state lawsuits slowed the process. Bakersfield Now
  • 2026-09-15 — Justice Samuel Alito, in dissent, argued that states challenging the USPS rule were responsible for delays they later cited. Bakersfield Now
  • 2026-09-15 — Former FEC Chairman Trey Trainor criticized the Supreme Court’s earlier decision allowing ballots postmarked by Election Day to be counted, stating it undermines public confidence in election timing. Bakersfield Now
  • 2026-09-15 — Attorney General Todd Blanche announced the administration would comply with the Supreme Court’s ruling while continuing efforts to ensure free and fair elections. Bakersfield Now

Sources