The Postal Service published regulations on Friday to restrict mail voting, aligning with President [PERSON_NAME]’s directive to limit the practice ahead of midterm elections. The final rule, detailed in a 95-page document, outlines how the agency will execute an executive order signed in March aimed at curbing mail ballots and establishing state voter eligibility lists. Under the new standards, the agency will only deliver mail ballots to states that share voter data with the federal government. Prior to acceptance, every ballot envelope will be scrutinized for compliance, including verification that the recipient is enrolled to receive mail ballots. States failing to comply would see their mail ballots withheld.

Although federal courts blocked much of the executive order this summer, the agency stated it will not implement the rule for the 2026 election unless injunctions are lifted. The Justice Department similarly confirmed in a filing that enforcement awaits a favorable high court ruling. The Supreme Court continues to review the matter. Meanwhile, President [PERSON_NAME] has repeatedly made unsubstantiated claims regarding mail voting fraud, despite regularly using the method himself. He previously admitted to Republican lawmakers that strict voter ID laws targeting mail ballots would secure electoral advantages for his party. A spokesperson declined comment due to ongoing litigation. [PERSON_NAME] contributed reporting.