Judge orders DOJ to stop trying to "intimidate" and "threaten" California election officials

October 30, 2026 / 10:50 PM EDT / CBS News

Judge orders DOJ to stop trying to "intimidate" and "threaten" California election officials

TL;DR

  • Federal government ordered to stop demanding separation of noncitizen ballots from California election officials.
  • Federal government ordered to stop threatening election officials with criminal prosecution.
  • Lawsuit filed by labor unions and other groups accused the Trump administration of intimidation and interference.
  • Judge ruled that federal officials likely violated the Voting Rights Act and acted outside their authority.
  • Temporary restraining order issued, expiring November 16.
  • Another judge previously denied a similar DOJ request, citing violation of constitutional principles.
  • Trump administration's appeal to an appellate court was also rejected.