USPS announces new mail-in ballot rules for 2026 midterms

The United States Postal Service (USPS) has announced new rules for mail-in ballots ahead of the November 3, 2026, midterm elections. The proposed regulations require election authorities to upload voter data to a federal portal and establish mandatory standards for ballot envelopes. Failure to comply with these rules could result in the rejection of ballots.

The policy aligns with an executive order from President Donald Trump aimed at tightening mail-in voting procedures. Under the framework, the USPS intends to distribute ballots only to individuals appearing on specific federal and state-approved lists. Postmaster General David Steiner has expressed support for the directive, stating it would ensure “the right ballots are going to the right people.”

However, the measures face significant legal opposition. U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani previously issued a preliminary injunction blocking nationwide enforcement, warning that changing procedures so close to an election could cause “confusion” and “chaos.” The court noted that the executive branch may lack constitutional authority under the Elections Clause to regulate state voting procedures, as states typically hold responsibility for election administration.