WASHINGTON — The political and legal battle over mail-in voting is intensifying as Democratic-led states challenge President Donald Trump's restrictions ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

The administration's order would require the U.S. Postal Service to use new procedures involving approved ballot envelopes and federal lists of eligible voters before delivering certain mail ballots. Critics argue that the federal government is intruding on the states' traditional role in election administration.

The latest legal action comes after a federal judge cleared the way for the administration's changes to take effect while leaving open the possibility of renewed challenges. Voting-rights organizations quickly moved to continue their legal fight.

Election officials have also raised concerns about the timing and practical difficulties of implementing new mail-ballot requirements only weeks before ballots begin moving to voters in key congressional races.

The White House argues that stronger safeguards are necessary to protect election integrity, while opponents warn that errors in federal voter lists could prevent eligible Americans from successfully casting ballots.

With control of the House and Senate at stake in November, the dispute over mail voting has become one of the most consequential election-law battles of the 2026 campaign.

Further court decisions could determine how much of the administration's voting policy is ultimately implemented nationwide.