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Judge Dismisses DOJ's Voter Data Lawsuit Against Rhode Island

4/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. District Judge Mary McElroy dismissed the Department of Justice (DOJ)'s lawsuit against Rhode Island seeking access to sensitive voter registration data.
McElroy described the DOJ's demands as a "fishing expedition" and noted it was the fifth loss in similar cases.
Rhode Island officials, including Secretary of State Gregg Amore, defended their voter data practices and said rolls are maintained independently.
The DOJ has appealed previous rulings in other states.

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Story summary

U.S. District Judge Mary McElroy dismissed the Department of Justice (DOJ)'s lawsuit against Rhode Island seeking access to sensitive voter registration data.
McElroy described the DOJ's demands as a "fishing expedition" and noted it was the fifth loss in similar cases.
Rhode Island officials, including Secretary of State Gregg Amore, defended their voter data practices and said rolls are maintained independently.
The DOJ has appealed previous rulings in other states.