Ninth Circuit Rejects Trump Administration’s Attempt to Disqualify 20,000 Mail‑in Ballots in California

On Oct. 26, 2026, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit denied a request from the Trump Administration to segregate and not count roughly 20,000 mail‑in ballots in California. The administration had argued the ballots were likely cast by non‑citizens, but the court said it lacked authority to act at this early stage.

What the court decided

The Ninth Circuit ruled that the federal government cannot bypass normal trial‑court procedures to obtain an injunction. It also found the administration had no legal basis to override California’s election laws, which the state says protect the integrity of voting.

Why the request was rejected

During oral arguments, the Trump Administration could not explain where it got a list of about 20,000 purported California voters, why the list contained many errors, or what third parties were involved. A preliminary check of 200 names by Los Angeles County officials showed more than half were cancelled or inactive, 38.9% listed a U.S. birthplace, and 71.2% had no voting history. In Mendocino County, every name on the list lived outside the county.

Impact on voters

The decision means all mail‑in ballots will continue to be counted under California’s existing safeguards. Voters do not need to take any special action; they can vote early, use a vote‑center, or drop ballots in a mailbox as usual. The ruling also prevents a potential disruption to an election already underway.

What this means for future challenges

Attorney General Rob Bonta said the ruling is a “speed bump” to what he called the administration’s “unlawful overreach.” He warned that the federal government may try other tactics, but the court’s order reaffirms that states and Congress—not the President—control election rules. Governor Gavin Newsom echoed the sentiment, urging Californians to stay engaged in the democratic process.

Anyone who feels their voting rights are threatened should consider consulting an attorney, especially if they receive notice of a ballot challenge.

This article is general information based on California Attorney General and court or agency records available at publication time. It is not legal advice; laws and deadlines differ by state and by case. Published October 27, 2026.