USPS proposes rule requiring states to hand over voter lists, threatening mail‑in ballot delivery

The United States Postal Service has drafted a rule that would compel any state using USPS to deliver mail‑in ballots to provide the agency with a full list of registered voters. The proposal is meant to fulfill President Trump’s executive order aimed at preventing alleged mail‑in ballot fraud. Under the rule, states that refuse to supply the lists could have their mail‑in ballots withheld, raising concerns that millions of voters—particularly in states that rely heavily on absentee voting—could be disenfranchised.

So far, 23 Democratic‑led states and the District of Columbia have filed lawsuits challenging the rule, arguing it is unconstitutional and would give the federal government unprecedented control over elections. The American Postal Workers Union and other critics say the measure threatens the independence of the Postal Service and endangers the integrity of mail voting. Public comments on the rule are due within 30 days, while litigation may delay implementation until after the 2026 midterm elections.