Judge orders DOJ to stop trying to "intimidate" and "threaten" California election officials
October 30, 2026 / 10:50 PM EDT / CBS News
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.