Trump Spirals as SCOTUS Refuses to Grant Block to Allow Postal Service to Refuse to Deliver Ballots
Summary
Michael Popok breaks down the urgent legal battle over the Trump administration's new Postal Service rules that threaten to block mail-in ballots. He details Judge Talani's preliminary injunction, which halts these requirements, and the Supreme Court's refusal to grant an emergency stay. Popok explains how the case reached the high court via Justice Jackson and why the lack of a stay suggests the rules may be blocked. The episode highlights the looming deadline for opposition briefs and the critical timing as states begin mailing ballots ahead of the midterms.
Topics discussed
Breaking news: Judge Talani's ruling and Supreme Court stay
Background: Mail-in voting and the role of the Postal Service
Case history: TROs, parties involved, and initial appeals
Supreme Court procedural moves and briefing deadlines
Upgrade to preliminary injunction and new emergency application
Current status: Briefing schedule and likelihood of oral argument
Impact on states mailing ballots and the Purcell Doctrine
Analysis of Judge Talani's findings on the final rule
Constitutional basis: Elections Clause and standing arguments
Practical hurdles: Portal issues and voter enrollment burdens
Solicitor General's arguments and outlook for the Trump side
Key dates, potential outcomes, and upcoming conference
Promotion of Legal Af Substack and community support
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