WASHINGTON — A federal judge has blocked the U.S. Postal Service from implementing part of President Donald Trump's executive order targeting mail-in voting, delivering a new legal setback to the administration ahead of the November 2026 midterm elections.

Judge Indira Talwani ruled that the executive branch does not have constitutional authority to impose the challenged election restrictions, arguing that election administration is primarily a responsibility of the states.

Trump's order had directed USPS to reject certain mail ballots from states that failed to provide lists of eligible voters. Voting-rights groups challenged the policy, warning that it could interfere with access to absentee and mail voting.

The decision expands on an earlier ruling that had already prevented enforcement of parts of the order in 23 Democratic-led states. The administration has asked the U.S. Supreme Court to intervene.

The timing makes the case especially important. With the 2026 midterm elections less than 90 days away, election officials and political campaigns are closely watching court decisions that could affect voting procedures.

The ruling comes as both parties intensify their efforts to shape election rules and turnout ahead of November.

The dispute could ultimately reach the Supreme Court, making mail-in voting one of the most closely watched election-law battles of the 2026 campaign season.