A US appeals court has ruled that California can continue counting mail-in ballots from over 20,000 registered voters that the Department of Justice claims are likely noncitizens. This ruling, issued by the ninth US circuit court of appeals, is a setback for the Trump administration, which has sought to increase federal oversight of elections ahead of the midterm elections scheduled for November 3. The decision underscores ongoing disputes over voting rights and election integrity.
Key facts
- The ninth US circuit court of appeals issued the ruling on October 26, 2026.
- The Department of Justice claimed over 20,000 registered voters may be noncitizens.
- The ruling allows California to count mail-in ballots ahead of the midterm elections.
- The midterm elections are scheduled for November 3, 2026.
- This decision is part of ongoing disputes regarding election oversight.
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