The decision leaves election administration authority with the implicated states and federal agencies as they respond to ongoing challenges.

The ruling was reported by the Associated Press on July 26, 2026, at 11:26 AM.

The White House and Justice Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the ruling, underscoring ongoing tensions over voting access and election integrity measures ahead of the elections.

The 2-1 decision keeps the preliminary injunction in place and allows the broader legal challenge to proceed, without ruling on the ultimate merits.

A federal appeals court in the 1st Circuit upheld a district court’s injunction blocking President Trump’s March executive order to create a federal voter eligibility list and restrict mail ballots to those on the list in 23 states and D.C. ahead of the midterm elections.

State election officials warned the order could be abused and cause chaos, arguing that election rules fall under Congress or state authority, not the president.

The Department of Justice said it is reviewing options and remains confident the order will be upheld, signaling potential further legal action.

The article notes coverage by Russ Bynum and a report from Savannah, Georgia.

Associated Press photos and captions related to election administration and mail-in ballots accompany the excerpt.

The injunction and ruling are part of a broader legal fight over federal involvement in election administration and voter access.

The report touches on Washington politics and figures connected to the case, including references to Obama, Indira Talwani, and Trump.

The case centers on separation of powers and the authority to regulate election procedures, with concerns about potential abuse and voter chaos if implemented.