Postal Service says it will not deliver ballots if states refuse to turn over voter lists under Trump proposal

The U.S. Postal Service is facing controversy over a newly proposed rule that would impact the delivery of mail-in ballots in states that do not provide a list of approved voters to the Trump administration. Postmaster General David Steiner revealed this information during a Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee hearing.

Democrats were quick to criticize the proposed policy, labeling it as unconstitutional and accusing it of being a way to influence the upcoming election. Senator Gary Peters of Michigan questioned Steiner about whether the Postal Service would still deliver ballots to states that refuse to share their absentee voter lists, to which Steiner responded that they would require the voter manifest.

This move by the Postal Service aligns with President Trump’s efforts to increase federal oversight of elections. The proposed rule aims to ensure that ballots are delivered securely, efficiently, and accurately. States would be required to provide names, addresses, and ballot barcode numbers for individuals to receive a mail-in ballot, as outlined in an executive order signed by Trump in March.

Despite the Postal Service’s justification that the rule is meant to guarantee that ballots reach the correct recipients, Senate Democrats view it as an attempt to exert federal control over elections. Senator Elissa Slotkin of Michigan criticized the President’s motives, accusing him of trying to federalize the election process and casting doubt on the integrity of the upcoming November elections.

The proposed rule has faced legal challenges, with several lawsuits contesting its constitutionality. However, some cases have stalled as the policy has not yet been implemented. The comment period for the rule is currently open for the next week.

When questioned about whether the Postal Service would withhold ballots from states that do not comply with the rule, Steiner evaded a direct answer but acknowledged that under the proposed regulation, ballots would be withheld. He emphasized that the Postal Service would follow the rules in effect at the time of the election, indicating a willingness to enforce the new policy if it is approved.

In conclusion, the proposed rule by the U.S. Postal Service has sparked debate and legal challenges, highlighting the ongoing efforts to ensure the integrity and security of the election process. The outcome of this rule and its potential impact on the upcoming election remain uncertain, with both supporters and critics voicing their concerns.