Trump executive order on voter eligibility faces federal court challenge

President Donald Trump issued a March 31 executive order directing the Department of Homeland Security to compile a list of eligible U.S. voters in each state and to prohibit the Postal Service from mailing absentee ballots to individuals not on that list. Attorneys for Democrats and civil‑rights groups filed a lawsuit in federal court, arguing the order exceeds presidential authority because only states and Congress may set election rules. The plaintiffs contend the order would restrict mail voting, disproportionately affect Democratic voters, and create chaos for local officials.

U.S. District Judge Carl Nichols heard arguments but did not issue a ruling, questioning both sides on the legality of disseminating the proposed list. The Justice Department called the lawsuit premature, describing it as “shadowboxing.” The case comes amid ongoing primary contests and preparations for the upcoming midterm elections, following earlier courts that blocked Trump’s prior election‑related orders.

If upheld, the order could reshape how absentee ballots are processed nationwide, prompting further legal battles over voting rights and election administration.