On November 2, 2026, Chief U.S. District Judge James Boasberg ruled that the Trump administration must cease its demands for California to set aside approximately 20,000 ballots from individuals suspected of being noncitizens. The judge found that the administration likely exceeded its constitutional authority, as the Elections Clause grants election rule authority to states and Congress. This decision is part of ongoing litigation initiated by immigrant rights groups, which argue that the federal government's efforts could wrongly flag eligible voters. The DOJ's request for the Supreme Court to intervene was denied shortly after the ruling.
Key facts
- Judge James Boasberg issued the ruling on November 2, 2026.
- The DOJ was ordered to stop demanding the separation of 20,000 ballots.
- The lawsuit was brought by the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights and Pedro Trujillo.
- California officials argue the government's list contains errors and could disrupt elections.
- The Supreme Court denied the DOJ's request to set aside the ballots.
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