Full Breakdown
USPS Rule to Withhold Mail Ballots Without State Voter Lists Draws Legal Opposition
6/25/2026, 5:32:23 AM
Proposed Rule
Postmaster General David Steiner told Senate Homeland Security Committee that rule would require states to provide names and barcodes for absentee voters, and would stop delivering mail ballots to a state that does not supply those lists.
Background
The rule follows President Donald Trump’s March order “Ensuring Citizen Verification and Integrity in Federal Elections,” which ordered agencies to create voter lists and tighten mail-in voting. USPS had recommended barcode tracking (Kit 600) but did not require states to submit voter rolls.
Timeline
March 31 2025 – Trump’s order issued. June 24 2026 – Steiner testified. June 2026 – Massachusetts judge allowed lawsuits. July 2 2026 – Comment deadline.
Data & Statistics
All 47 Democratic senators signed a letter opposing the rule. The proposal would force states to submit voter names and barcodes for mail ballots. Nine of nine prior court challenges to the administration’s voter-roll demands have been lost. The comment deadline is July 2.
Why It Matters
The rule could block millions of voters—seniors, people with disabilities, military families, students, and voters of color—from receiving mail ballots, raising concerns about overreach and turning the USPS into an election-administration agency.
Official Statements & Responses
Steiner said rule would “match the ballots a state believes it’s sending out to what actually gets sent out” and that USPS follows regulations. Senator Gary Peters called it “unacceptable,” saying it coerces states and threatens mail-in voting. Senators Elissa Slotkin and Margaret Hassan called Steiner a “pawn” and labeled rule “blatantly illegal.” League of Women Voters warned it threatens constitutional rights and millions’ ability to vote by mail.
Criticism & Opposition
Democratic senators say the rule violates the Constitution’s allocation of election administration to states and exceeds presidential authority. Civil-rights groups have sued, arguing it would disenfranchise vulnerable voters. Postal workers say it undermines the USPS’s nonpartisan mission.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The administration says the rule merely codifies existing practices, but critics note that states such as California and Oregon have used barcode tracking voluntarily without being forced to turn over voter lists. Sources differ on whether the rule is new or a formalization of guidance, and no data on affected states have been released.
Verbatim Quotes
“No,” — David Steiner, Postmaster General
“That's unacceptable.” — Senator Gary Peters, ranking member, Senate Homeland Security Committee
“You are being used (by President Trump),” — Senator Elissa Slotkin, Michigan
“blatantly illegal.” — 47 Democratic senators (joint letter)
What’s Next
The public comment period ends July 2, after which the Trump administration could finalize the rule. Federal lawsuits in Massachusetts and other states will continue to challenge its constitutionality, and Senate Democrats plan oversight hearings and possible legislation to block implementation.
