A federal judge in Washington, D.C., has declined to block President Donald Trump's executive order tightening rules on mail-in voting. U.S. District Judge Carl Nichols, a Trump appointee, rejected the request from Democrats and civil rights groups who argued that the order would likely be found unconstitutional.
Democrats and civil rights groups argued that the order risks improperly excluding lawfully registered voters and could disenfranchise millions. They asserted that a restraining order was urgent as the country is in the midst of primary season and states are already gearing up for the fall midterm elections.
Judge Nichols stated that the legal challenge is premature as the administration moves to implement the measure, noting that it is too early to block the order restricting who can receive mail ballots. This decision occurs as Republicans face a challenging battle to retain control of both houses of Congress in the November midterm elections. Another judge may rule on the order soon.