Democratic Party leaders have filed a federal lawsuit seeking to block the Trump administration from interfering with state-run election procedures, escalating a political and legal battle just days before the November 3, 2026, midterm elections.

The lawsuit, filed in Washington, D.C., by Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and other party organizations, asks a federal court to prevent the administration from removing eligible voters from registration lists or denying their ballots without lawful grounds.

The plaintiffs also challenge what they describe as threats of prosecution against state election officials. They argue that election administration largely belongs to state and local authorities and that federal intervention could undermine voters’ rights.

The Justice Department has defended its actions, saying election integrity is a priority and that its efforts are grounded in law.

The dispute comes as both parties prepare for a closely watched election that will determine control of Congress. The outcome could affect the administration’s legislative agenda, congressional investigations and the balance of power in Washington.

The lawsuit does not represent a final court finding that the administration acted unlawfully. The case now puts the federal judiciary at the center of a wider debate over voting rights, state authority and election security ahead of Election Day.