A federal judge has issued an emergency order preventing the Trump administration from threatening election workers with criminal prosecution related to ballot counting. This ruling comes just days before the midterm elections and prohibits federal demands to exclude ballots based on claims of ineligibility. Judge Trina Thompson found that the administration's actions likely violated the Voting Rights Act. The ruling reflects ongoing federal investigations into election administration and the DOJ's efforts to enforce laws against noncitizen voting.
Key facts
- U.S. District Judge Trina Thompson issued the ruling on October 31, 2026.
- The order prohibits threats against election workers for counting ballots.
- The DOJ has filed 31 lawsuits seeking voter records since May 2025.
- The ruling addresses concerns over voter intimidation and election integrity.
- Noncitizen voting in federal elections is illegal.
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