A federal judge has temporarily blocked a Trump administration rule that would impose new Postal Service requirements on states sending mail ballots, with the midterm elections approaching. The ruling pauses the measure for 14 days, giving states and voting-rights groups relief from immediate changes they argue would disrupt election preparations and exceed federal authority.

Judge Indira Talwani said states lacked the time and funding to redesign ballots, alter election systems and submit voter information through a USPS portal before voting begins. The Postal Service said non-compliant ballots would not be accepted, while opponents argued the rule interferes with states’ constitutional role in setting election procedures; a hearing is scheduled for 3 September and an appeal is expected.