Florida
A dated list of changes to how Americans vote: district maps, polling places and drop boxes, voting laws and rules, and courts and election officials. Each entry says who did what and when, shows what became of it, and links to the page it rests on. Attempts that failed are listed as failed. Entries that rest on a news report name the outlet.
This is the state view: events recorded for Florida, then national events that apply here. See the national timeline.
Congressional districts in Florida
Choose a district to see the events tagged to it. A number after the district is how many events name it.
In Florida
2026
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Seminole County lists 14 Election Day polling places changed since 2024
The Seminole County Supervisor of Elections' 2026 polling location updates page lists 14 precincts (2, 20, 23, 39, 46, 51, 54, 55, 62, 65, 70, 75, 77 and 79) whose 2024 Election Day polling places are "no longer active," with a new 2026 location for each; precincts 39, 51 and 55 are marked as updated since the August primary. Oviedo Community News reported on October 21, 2026 that 12 of the 14 closed sites were churches and that the office mailed new voter cards and planned signs at the old sites on Election Day.
- Seminole County Supervisor of Elections: Polling Location Updates (2026) ↗
- Elections supervisor: Check your polling location, as 14 Seminole County voting locations closed since 2024 (October 21, 2026) ↗ News report, Oviedo Community News
Source last checked Oct 22, 2026
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Seminole County supervisor reports 14 polling locations closed since the 2024 election
Oviedo Community News reported on October 21, 2026 that 14 Seminole County polling locations had closed since the 2024 election, three of them since the August 2026 primary (precincts 39, 51 and 55), and that 12 of the 14 were churches no longer offering their space. Supervisor of Elections Amy Pennock sent new voter information cards reassigning voters to other existing polling places. A volunteer with the county Democratic Party said volunteers saw voters go to the wrong location in the primary.
- Oviedo Community News (Abe Aboraya): Elections supervisor: Check your polling location, as 14 Seminole County voting locations closed since 2024, Oct. 21, 2026 ↗ News report, Oviedo Community News
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Leon County elections supervisor files FBI complaint after Border Patrol vehicles park at early voting site
WCTV reported that on October 19, 2026, the first day of early voting in Leon County, two U.S. Customs and Border Protection vehicles parked for about ten minutes outside the Northeast Branch Library early voting site in Tallahassee, and that Supervisor of Elections Mark Earley filed a formal complaint with the FBI. The station reported that the office received no calls from voters about the vehicles and that it had no statement from the federal agencies.
- WCTV report on federal vehicles seen at a Leon County early voting site (October 21, 2026) ↗ News report, WCTV
Source last checked Oct 22, 2026
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Florida NAACP sues over HB 991's removal of student IDs as voter ID
On October 16, 2026, the Florida State Conference of Branches and Youth Units of the NAACP sued Secretary of State Cord Byrd and the state's county supervisors of elections in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida (No. 1:26-cv-27307). The complaint challenges one part of HB 991, signed April 1, 2026: its removal of student IDs from the list of photo IDs voters may show to cast a ballot, while the same law broadened the accepted IDs to any photo ID issued by the federal government, the state, or a Florida county or city, except IDs issued by a public school or college. It claims the change violates the Twenty-Sixth Amendment and the Equal Protection Clause and asks the court to bar enforcement.
- Complaint, Florida State Conference of Branches and Youth Units of the NAACP v. Byrd, No. 1:26-cv-27307 (S.D. Fla., filed October 16, 2026) (copy posted by Democracy Docket) ↗
- Docket, Florida State Conference of Branches and Youth Units of the NAACP v. Byrd, No. 1:26-cv-27307 (S.D. Fla.) ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Governor and Attorney General announce 20 more voter-fraud arrests six weeks before the general election
The Florida Attorney General's release dated September 24, 2026 says Attorney General James Uthmeier, joined by Governor Ron DeSantis, announced that 20 defendants are being arrested and prosecuted for voting fraud, and that since SB 524 created the Office of Election Crimes at the Department of State "there have been over 100 election fraud-related prosecutions." The release describes the defendants as lawful permanent residents or noncitizens charged with offenses such as Unqualified Noncitizen Electors Willfully Voting, each a third-degree felony. CBS Miami and the News Service of Florida reported that 12 were in custody and that Uthmeier said "at least three-quarters" were foreign nationals.
- Florida Attorney General: Attorney General James Uthmeier Announces Arrests, Charges Against 20 Defendants in Statewide Election Integrity Operation (September 24, 2026) ↗
- CBS Miami: DeSantis announces 20 new voting fraud indictments in Florida (Sept. 24, 2026) ↗ News report, CBS Miami
Source last checked Oct 21, 2026
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Challengers drop their appeal over Florida's 2026 congressional map
Democracy Docket's case page for Equal Ground Education Fund v. Byrd lists, under June 24, 2026, that the plaintiffs voluntarily dismissed their appeal pending before the state's First District Court of Appeal. The page lists the Florida Supreme Court's June 10, 2026 denial of their petition and says the 2026 map will be in place for the midterms.
- Democracy Docket: Florida Congressional Redistricting Challenge (Equal Ground) ↗ News report, Democracy Docket
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Florida Supreme Court denies a petition to halt use of the 2026 congressional map
On June 10, 2026 the Florida Supreme Court wrote: "We hereby deny Petitioners' request for a constitutional writ." The order says the petitioners asked the court to intervene in the First District Court of Appeal's ongoing appeal of an order declining to grant a temporary injunction, and that "At this time, we do not have jurisdiction over that matter." Five justices concurred in the order, Justice Tanenbaum specially concurred and Justice Labarga dissented; the Associated Press, carried by WUSF, described it as a 6-1 decision. The new districts will be used in the 2026 midterm elections, according to the same report.
- Florida Supreme Court: Equal Ground Education Fund v. Secretary, Florida Department of State, No. SC2026-0857, order of June 10, 2026 (CourtListener copy) ↗
- WUSF (Associated Press): Challenge to Florida's new redistricting map is rejected (June 11, 2026) ↗ News report, WUSF
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Leon County judge declines to block the 2026 congressional map for this year's elections
Hours after the map was signed, a community group sued in the Second Judicial Circuit in Tallahassee. Judge Joshua Hawkes wrote in a May 26 decision, as quoted by the Florida Record: "Plaintiffs' evidence at this stage is insufficient to support the permissibility of this court forcing the 2022 map onto the electorate in contravention of the duly enacted 2026 map." The case continues on the merits.
- Leon County Circuit Court: Equal Ground Education Fund v. Byrd, No. 2026 CA 914, Order on Motions for Preliminary Injunction (e-filed May 26, 2026; copy posted by State Court Report) ↗
- Florida Record: Voting rights groups urge Fla. SC to suspend new congressional map (June 10, 2026) ↗ News report, Florida Record
- Central Florida Public Media: DeSantis signs new congressional map into law; lawsuit filed (May 4, 2026) ↗ News report, Central Florida Public Media
Source last checked Oct 21, 2026
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Governor signs a new congressional map in a mid-decade special session
On April 15, 2026 the Governor called a special session on redrawing congressional districts. The Legislature passed HB 1-D on April 29, 2026, and the Governor signed the plan into law on May 4, 2026, as Chapter 2026-229. Central Florida Public Media reported that 24 of the state's 28 U.S. House seats favor the Republican Party under the new map, four more than under the previous map.
- Florida Office of Economic and Demographic Research: Redistricting ↗
- Florida Senate: HB 1-D (2026D) ↗
- Central Florida Public Media: DeSantis signs new congressional map into law; lawsuit filed (May 4, 2026) ↗ News report, Central Florida Public Media
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
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Federal judge enters judgment for the state on challenges to HB 1205 provisions; appeal filed
Following a bench trial, Judge Mark Walker of the Northern District of Florida entered judgment on April 30, 2026 for the defendants on several challenges to HB 1205, including the petition circulator eligibility and registration requirements and the ten-day delivery requirement, and dismissed the balance of plaintiffs' claims for lack of standing. Some plaintiffs filed a notice of appeal to the Eleventh Circuit on June 1, 2026.
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
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Governor signs HB 991, adding U.S. citizenship checks to voter registration
The Florida Senate's bill record shows that CS/CS/HB 991 (Elections) passed the House 83 to 31 on February 25, 2026, passed the Senate as amended 27 to 12 on March 12, 2026, passed the House again 77 to 28 the same day, and was approved by Governor Ron DeSantis on April 1, 2026 as Chapter 2026-26, Laws of Florida. The bill summary says it requires that an applicant's legal status as a U.S. citizen be recorded in the statewide voter registration system, requires supervisors of elections to verify voters' citizenship using specified sources, and requires the online registration system to send applications to the supervisor when motor-vehicle records show an applicant is not a citizen or has not given acceptable evidence of citizenship. Most of the act takes effect January 1, 2027. A later federal suit says the act also removed student IDs from the forms of photo ID accepted at the polls.
Source last checked Oct 23, 2026
2025
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Florida Supreme Court upholds the 2022 congressional map against a Fair Districts challenge over former District 5
In Black Voters Matter Capacity Building Institute v. Secretary, Florida Department of State, the Florida Supreme Court wrote, "We uphold our state's congressional districting plan, because the federal Equal Protection Clause prohibits the racially gerrymandered district that the plaintiffs demand." The trial court had declared the 2022 plan unconstitutional; the First District Court of Appeal reversed in 2023. The plaintiffs alleged neither intentional discrimination nor Voting Rights Act violations.
Congressional districts named: FL-5
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
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House Bill 1205 changes the rules for citizen initiative petitions
House Bill 1205, Chapter 2025-21, became law on May 2, 2025 except as otherwise provided. It revises provisions on amendments to the State Constitution by initiative, including petition handling, sponsor and petition circulator registration, signature verification, record retention, and criminal penalties.
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
2024
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Amendments 3 and 4 win a majority but fall short of the 60 percent needed
At the November 5, 2024 general election, the Florida Division of Elections' official results show Amendment 3 (Adult Personal Use of Marijuana) with 55.9 percent yes (5,950,589 yes, 4,693,524 no) and Amendment 4 (Amendment to Limit Government Interference with Abortion) with 57.2 percent yes (6,070,758 yes, 4,548,379 no). Article XI, Section 5(e) requires at least 60 percent of the voters on the measure, so neither took effect.
- Florida Division of Elections: November 5, 2024 General Election, official results, constitutional amendments ↗
- NBC 6 South Florida: Why didn't Amendment 3 and Amendment 4 pass in Florida? (Nov. 6, 2024) ↗ News report, NBC 6 South Florida
Source last checked Oct 21, 2026
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Federal court declares SB 7050's citizenship requirement for voter registration workers unconstitutional
On March 1, 2024, the court granted partial summary judgment to the Hispanic Federation plaintiffs on their equal protection count against the Secretary of State and denied it as to the Attorney General. On May 15, 2024, in its final order on the merits, the court declared that the citizenship requirement in section 97.0575(1)(f), Florida Statutes, as amended by SB 7050, "violates Plaintiffs' rights under the Fourteenth Amendment of the United States Constitution" and granted a permanent injunction against the Secretary of State and Attorney General as to that provision. The state appealed to the Eleventh Circuit (No. 24-11892); the docket shows the appeal still pending in 2026.
- Hispanic Federation v. Byrd, No. 4:23cv218 (N.D. Fla. May 15, 2024), Doc. 199, final order on merits (CourtListener RECAP copy) ↗
- Order on motion for partial summary judgment, Doc. 149 (Mar. 1, 2024) (CourtListener RECAP copy) ↗
Source last checked Oct 21, 2026
2023
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Federal judge blocks two parts of Florida's SB 7050 on third-party voter registration
On July 3, 2023, Chief Judge Mark Walker of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida granted a preliminary injunction in cases brought by the Florida NAACP and Hispanic Federation plaintiffs (Nos. 4:23cv215 and 4:23cv218). The order barred the Secretary of State and Attorney General from enforcing section 97.0575(1)(f), which bars noncitizens from collecting or handling voter registration applications for third-party registration organizations, and section 97.0575(7), a felony provision on retaining voters' personal information. The state defendants appealed on July 11, 2023.
- Florida State Conference of Branches and Youth Units of the NAACP v. Byrd, Nos. 4:23cv215 and 4:23cv218 (N.D. Fla. July 3, 2023), Doc. 68, preliminary injunction (CourtListener RECAP copy) ↗
- Docket, Hispanic Federation v. Byrd, No. 4:23-cv-00218 (N.D. Fla.) (CourtListener) ↗
Source last checked Oct 21, 2026
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Senate Bill 7050 changes signature-matching training, third-party registration and voter-list removals
Senate Bill 7050, Chapter 2023-120, took effect July 1, 2023 except as otherwise provided. It requires mandatory signature-matching training from the Secretary of State, requires third-party voter registration organizations to report the election cycle for which they register voters, and requires supervisors to follow specified procedures before removing a registered voter.
Source last checked Oct 27, 2026
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Eleventh Circuit reverses most of a ruling against SB 90's drop-box, solicitation and registration-delivery provisions
In League of Women Voters of Florida v. Florida Secretary of State, the Eleventh Circuit reviewed a district court judgment that enjoined three SB 90 provisions as intentionally discriminatory and imposed a Section 3(c) preclearance requirement. It held that "the findings of intentional racial discrimination rest on both legal errors and clearly erroneous findings of fact," reversed in part, affirmed in part, vacated in part and remanded. One judge dissented.
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
2022
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Governor announces the arrest of 20 people for election crimes
On August 18, 2022, Governor DeSantis announced that, following investigations by the Office of Election Crimes and Security and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, "20 individuals are being arrested by FDLE for breaking Florida's elections laws." The release says all 20 had been disqualified from voting after criminal convictions.
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
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Senate Bill 524 creates the Office of Election Crimes and Security
Senate Bill 524, Chapter 2022-73, took effect April 25, 2022. It creates the Office of Election Crimes and Security within the Department of State, revises how often supervisors must conduct registration list maintenance, and requires people observing ballot duplication to sign an affidavit acknowledging criminal penalties.
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
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Governor signs SB 2-C establishing Florida's 2022 congressional districts
After a special session, SB 2-C was signed into law on April 22, 2022, establishing the state's congressional districts beginning in 2022. It is Chapter 2022-265, Laws of Florida.
- Florida Office of Economic and Demographic Research: Redistricting ↗
- Black Voters Matter Capacity Building Institute v. Secretary, Florida Department of State, No. SC2023-1671 (Fla. July 17, 2025) ↗
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
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Governor vetoes the Legislature's 2022 congressional map
The Legislature passed CS/SB 102 to establish the state's congressional districts on March 4, 2022. The Governor vetoed it on March 29, 2022 and called a special session to consider a different proposal.
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
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Florida Supreme Court declares the 2022 state House and Senate maps valid
The Legislature passed CS/SJR 100, containing state House and Senate districts, on February 3, 2022. On March 3, 2022 the Florida Supreme Court wrote, "we declare valid the House and Senate apportionment plans in Senate Joint Resolution 100."
- Florida Office of Economic and Demographic Research: Redistricting ↗
- In re Senate Joint Resolution of Legislative Apportionment 100 (Fla. Mar. 3, 2022) ↗
Source last checked Oct 27, 2026
2021
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Broward County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 8, 2021 (86 FR 69611), lists Broward County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (86 FR 69611, December 8, 2021) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination public file, 2021 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Collier County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 8, 2021 (86 FR 69611), lists Collier County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (86 FR 69611, December 8, 2021) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination public file, 2021 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in DeSoto County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 8, 2021 (86 FR 69611), lists DeSoto County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (86 FR 69611, December 8, 2021) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination public file, 2021 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Seminole language group in Glades County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 8, 2021 (86 FR 69611), lists Glades County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Seminole. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (86 FR 69611, December 8, 2021) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination public file, 2021 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Hardee County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 8, 2021 (86 FR 69611), lists Hardee County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (86 FR 69611, December 8, 2021) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination public file, 2021 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Hendry County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 8, 2021 (86 FR 69611), lists Hendry County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (86 FR 69611, December 8, 2021) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination public file, 2021 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Hillsborough County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 8, 2021 (86 FR 69611), lists Hillsborough County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (86 FR 69611, December 8, 2021) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination public file, 2021 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Lee County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 8, 2021 (86 FR 69611), lists Lee County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (86 FR 69611, December 8, 2021) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination public file, 2021 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Miami-Dade County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 8, 2021 (86 FR 69611), lists Miami-Dade County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (86 FR 69611, December 8, 2021) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination public file, 2021 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Orange County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 8, 2021 (86 FR 69611), lists Orange County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (86 FR 69611, December 8, 2021) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination public file, 2021 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Osceola County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 8, 2021 (86 FR 69611), lists Osceola County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (86 FR 69611, December 8, 2021) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination public file, 2021 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Palm Beach County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 8, 2021 (86 FR 69611), lists Palm Beach County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (86 FR 69611, December 8, 2021) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination public file, 2021 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Pinellas County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 8, 2021 (86 FR 69611), lists Pinellas County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (86 FR 69611, December 8, 2021) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination public file, 2021 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Polk County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 8, 2021 (86 FR 69611), lists Polk County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (86 FR 69611, December 8, 2021) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination public file, 2021 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Seminole County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 8, 2021 (86 FR 69611), lists Seminole County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (86 FR 69611, December 8, 2021) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination public file, 2021 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Senate Bill 90 changes vote-by-mail requests, drop boxes and solicitation near drop boxes
Senate Bill 90, Chapter 2021-11, took effect May 6, 2021. Among other things it limits vote-by-mail ballot requests to elections through the end of the calendar year of the next regularly scheduled general election, and prohibits certain solicitation activities within a specified area around a drop box.
Source last checked Oct 27, 2026
2020
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Full Eleventh Circuit reverses the Amendment 4 ruling for plaintiffs who cannot pay fines and fees
Sitting en banc in Jones v. Governor of Florida, the Eleventh Circuit held that rational basis review applies and wrote, "Because the felons failed to prove a violation of the Constitution, we reverse the judgment of the district court and vacate the challenged portions of its injunction." The district court had ruled on May 24, 2020, 462 F. Supp. 3d 1196.
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
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Eleventh Circuit panel affirms an injunction for plaintiffs unable to pay fines and fees under Amendment 4
In Jones v. Governor of Florida, an Eleventh Circuit panel wrote that under heightened scrutiny the requirement to pay legal financial obligations violated the Equal Protection Clause as applied to the plaintiffs: "we hold that it does and affirm the preliminary injunction entered by the district court." The full court later overruled this holding.
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
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Florida Supreme Court advises that "all terms of sentence" includes fines, fees and restitution
In an advisory opinion to the Governor on implementing Amendment 4, the Florida Supreme Court wrote: "We answer in the affirmative, concluding that 'all terms of sentence' encompasses not just durational periods but also all LFOs imposed in conjunction with an adjudication of guilt."
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
2019
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Report counts 1 fewer polling place in Collier County in 2018 than in 2012
The Leadership Conference Education Fund, a civil rights coalition, reported in September 2019 that Collier County had 60 Election Day polling places in the 2012 general election and 59 in 2018, a change of -1 (-2%). The report lists the 2012 count as from a hand count of polling-place lists and the 2018 count as from a hand count of polling-place lists. The report covers counties once covered by Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act.
- Democracy Diverted: Polling Place Closures and the Right to Vote (September 2019), Appendix, page 59 ↗ News report, The Leadership Conference Education Fund
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Report counts 1 more polling place in Hardee County in 2016 than in 2012
The Leadership Conference Education Fund, a civil rights coalition, reported in September 2019 that Hardee County had 12 Election Day polling places in the 2012 general election and 13 in 2016, a change of +1 (8%). The report lists the 2012 count as from a hand count of polling-place lists and the 2016 count as from a hand count of polling-place lists. The report covers counties once covered by Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act.
- Democracy Diverted: Polling Place Closures and the Right to Vote (September 2019), Appendix, page 59 ↗ News report, The Leadership Conference Education Fund
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Report counts 19 fewer polling places in Hillsborough County in 2018 than in 2012
The Leadership Conference Education Fund, a civil rights coalition, reported in September 2019 that Hillsborough County had 276 Election Day polling places in the 2012 general election and 257 in 2018, a change of -19 (-7%). The report lists the 2012 count as from the Election Assistance Commission's Election Administration and Voting Survey and the 2018 count as from a hand count of polling-place lists. The report covers counties once covered by Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act.
- Democracy Diverted: Polling Place Closures and the Right to Vote (September 2019), Appendix, page 59 ↗ News report, The Leadership Conference Education Fund
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Report counts 2 fewer polling places in Monroe County in 2018 than in 2012
The Leadership Conference Education Fund, a civil rights coalition, reported in September 2019 that Monroe County had 29 Election Day polling places in the 2012 general election and 27 in 2018, a change of -2 (-7%). The report lists the 2012 count as from a hand count of polling-place lists and the 2018 count as from a hand count of polling-place lists. The report covers counties once covered by Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act.
- Democracy Diverted: Polling Place Closures and the Right to Vote (September 2019), Appendix, page 59 ↗ News report, The Leadership Conference Education Fund
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Senate Bill 7066 implements Amendment 4 and requires payment of fines, fees and restitution
Senate Bill 7066, Chapter 2019-162, took effect July 1, 2019. It requires supervisors of elections to make a final determination of whether a person with a felony conviction has completed all terms of sentence. The Eleventh Circuit described it as interpreting Amendment 4 "to require payment of all fines, fees and restitution imposed as part of the sentence."
Source last checked Oct 27, 2026
2018
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Federal judge rules on recount order and deadlines in Palm Beach County after the 2018 election
In November 2018, candidates sought recount relief for Palm Beach County. According to the Federal Judicial Center, on November 16 Judge Mark Walker declared that the order in which the county conducted recounts was within the canvassing board's discretion, noting "the extremely limited functionality of Palm Beach County's tabulating machines." The board reordered the recounts and completed the legislative race recount on time.
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
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Voters approve Amendment 4, restoring voting rights to many people with felony convictions
On November 6, 2018, Florida voters approved Amendment 4, a constitutional amendment that provided that a felon's "voting rights shall be restored upon completion of all terms of sentence including parole or probation," according to the Eleventh Circuit.
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
2016
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Broward County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 5, 2016 (81 FR 87532), lists Broward County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2021 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (81 FR 87532, December 5, 2016) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination data files, 2016 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in DeSoto County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 5, 2016 (81 FR 87532), lists DeSoto County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2021 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (81 FR 87532, December 5, 2016) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination data files, 2016 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Hardee County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 5, 2016 (81 FR 87532), lists Hardee County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2021 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (81 FR 87532, December 5, 2016) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination data files, 2016 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Hendry County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 5, 2016 (81 FR 87532), lists Hendry County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2021 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (81 FR 87532, December 5, 2016) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination data files, 2016 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Hillsborough County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 5, 2016 (81 FR 87532), lists Hillsborough County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2021 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (81 FR 87532, December 5, 2016) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination data files, 2016 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Lee County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 5, 2016 (81 FR 87532), lists Lee County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2021 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (81 FR 87532, December 5, 2016) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination data files, 2016 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Miami-Dade County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 5, 2016 (81 FR 87532), lists Miami-Dade County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2021 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (81 FR 87532, December 5, 2016) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination data files, 2016 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Orange County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 5, 2016 (81 FR 87532), lists Orange County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2021 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (81 FR 87532, December 5, 2016) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination data files, 2016 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Osceola County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 5, 2016 (81 FR 87532), lists Osceola County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2021 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (81 FR 87532, December 5, 2016) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination data files, 2016 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Palm Beach County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 5, 2016 (81 FR 87532), lists Palm Beach County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2021 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (81 FR 87532, December 5, 2016) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination data files, 2016 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Pinellas County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 5, 2016 (81 FR 87532), lists Pinellas County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2021 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (81 FR 87532, December 5, 2016) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination data files, 2016 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Polk County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 5, 2016 (81 FR 87532), lists Polk County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2021 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (81 FR 87532, December 5, 2016) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination data files, 2016 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Seminole County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on December 5, 2016 (81 FR 87532), lists Seminole County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2021 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (81 FR 87532, December 5, 2016) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination data files, 2016 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
2015
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Florida Supreme Court approves the remedial congressional map for the rest of the decade
On December 2, 2015, the Florida Supreme Court wrote, "We approve in full the trial court's 'Order Recommending Adoption of Remedial Map,'" calling its opinion the eighth concerning legislative or congressional apportionment since the Fair Districts Amendment. The map would be used in the 2016 congressional elections and until the next decennial redistricting.
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
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Florida Supreme Court finds 2012 congressional map tainted by unconstitutional intent and orders five districts redrawn
In League of Women Voters of Florida v. Detzner, the Florida Supreme Court affirmed the trial court's finding that the 2012 redistricting process and map were "taint[ed]" by unconstitutional intent to favor the Republican Party and incumbent lawmakers, but reversed the order upholding the Legislature's remedial plan. It directed that Districts 5, 13, 14, 26 and 27 be redrawn.
Congressional districts named: FL-5, FL-13, FL-14, FL-26, FL-27
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
2014
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Eleventh Circuit holds Florida's 2012 noncitizen purge violated the 90-day provision of the National Voter Registration Act
On April 1, 2014, a divided Eleventh Circuit panel reversed a district court ruling in Arcia v. Florida Secretary of State, concluding "that Florida's program was an attempt to systematically remove names from the voter rolls in violation of the 90 Day Provision," according to the Federal Judicial Center's account of the case.
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
2012
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Federal court declines to preclear Florida's 2011 early voting changes in the five covered counties
In Florida v. United States, a three-judge court in the District of Columbia reviewed 2011 changes under Section 5 for the five covered counties: Collier, Hardee, Hendry, Hillsborough and Monroe. It concluded it could not "preclear Florida's early voting changes because the State has failed to satisfy its burden of proving that those changes will not have a retrogressive effect on minority voters," and found that the State had met its burden for changes to procedures for voters who move between counties.
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
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Justice Department sues Florida over a noncitizen voter-roll purge
On June 12, 2012, the Justice Department sued Florida, claiming that a systematic purge of its voter registrations within ninety days of the August 14 primary violated the National Voter Registration Act. According to the Federal Judicial Center, fifteen days later the district court ruled against preliminary injunctive relief because Florida had ceased the purge, and ruled that the ninety-day limit did not apply to noncitizens.
Source last checked Oct 27, 2026
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Florida Supreme Court declares the 2012 Senate map invalid and the House map valid under the Fair Districts Amendment
On March 9, 2012, in In re Senate Joint Resolution of Legislative Apportionment 1176 (No. SC12-1, 83 So. 3d 597), the Florida Supreme Court wrote: "we declare the plan apportioning districts for the Florida House of Representatives to be constitutionally valid under the Florida Constitution. We declare the plan apportioning the districts for the Florida Senate to be constitutionally invalid." It concluded the Senate plan was facially invalid under article III, section 21, said the House plan could be severed from the Senate plan, and directed the Legislature to adopt a new joint resolution of apportionment for the Senate.
Source last checked Oct 21, 2026
2011
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Broward County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on October 13, 2011 (76 FR 63602), lists Broward County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2016 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (76 FR 63602, October 13, 2011) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination data files, 2011 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Hardee County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on October 13, 2011 (76 FR 63602), lists Hardee County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2016 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (76 FR 63602, October 13, 2011) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination data files, 2011 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Hendry County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on October 13, 2011 (76 FR 63602), lists Hendry County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2016 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (76 FR 63602, October 13, 2011) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination data files, 2011 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Hillsborough County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on October 13, 2011 (76 FR 63602), lists Hillsborough County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2016 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (76 FR 63602, October 13, 2011) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination data files, 2011 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Lee County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on October 13, 2011 (76 FR 63602), lists Lee County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2016 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (76 FR 63602, October 13, 2011) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination data files, 2011 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Miami-Dade County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on October 13, 2011 (76 FR 63602), lists Miami-Dade County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2016 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (76 FR 63602, October 13, 2011) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination data files, 2011 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Orange County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on October 13, 2011 (76 FR 63602), lists Orange County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2016 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (76 FR 63602, October 13, 2011) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination data files, 2011 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Osceola County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on October 13, 2011 (76 FR 63602), lists Osceola County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2016 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (76 FR 63602, October 13, 2011) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination data files, 2011 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Palm Beach County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on October 13, 2011 (76 FR 63602), lists Palm Beach County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2016 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (76 FR 63602, October 13, 2011) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination data files, 2011 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Polk County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on October 13, 2011 (76 FR 63602), lists Polk County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2016 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (76 FR 63602, October 13, 2011) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination data files, 2011 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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House Bill 1355 changes early voting, third-party registration and other election rules
House Bill 1355, Chapter 2011-40, took effect May 19, 2011. According to a federal three-judge court, it made approximately 80 sets of changes to Florida election law, including changing early in-person voting to start on the 10th day before an election and end on the 3rd day before it, for a total of eight days, four fewer than before, and rules for third-party voter registration organizations.
- Florida Senate: CS/CS/HB 1355 (2011) ↗
- Florida v. United States, No. 11-1428 (D.D.C. Aug. 16, 2012) ↗
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
2010
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Voters add the Fair Districts Amendment to the Florida Constitution
Florida voters approved the Fair Districts Amendment in 2010. It bars drawing congressional and legislative districts "with the intent to favor or disfavor a political party or an incumbent," and bars districts drawn "to diminish [racial and language minorities'] ability to elect representatives of their choice," according to the Florida Supreme Court.
- Black Voters Matter Capacity Building Institute v. Secretary, Florida Department of State, No. SC2023-1671 (Fla. July 17, 2025) ↗
- League of Women Voters of Florida v. Detzner, No. SC14-1905 (Fla. July 9, 2015) ↗
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
2009
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Court enters consent decree replacing Lake Park at-large commission elections
The Justice Department filed a complaint on March 31, 2009, against the Town of Lake Park in Palm Beach County, Florida, alleging that its at-large system of electing commissioners violated Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. On October 26, 2009, the court entered a consent judgment and decree replacing the at-large method with a limited voting plan providing for the election of four commissioners with concurrent terms.
- U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division: Cases Raising Claims Under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act (United States v. Town of Lake Park, FL) ↗
- U.S. Department of Justice: consent judgment and decree, United States v. Town of Lake Park (October 26, 2009) ↗
- U.S. Department of Justice: complaint, United States v. Town of Lake Park (filed March 31, 2009) ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
2008
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Court approves consent judgment on Osceola County school board districts
The Justice Department filed a complaint on April 16, 2008, simultaneously with an agreement, alleging under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act that the boundaries of the school board's single-member districts diluted Hispanic voting strength. On April 23, 2008, the court approved a consent judgment and decree providing for a new plan that includes one district with a Hispanic voter registration majority.
- U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division: Cases Raising Claims Under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act (United States v. The School Board of Osceola County) ↗
- U.S. Department of Justice: consent judgment and decree, United States v. School Board of Osceola County (April 23, 2008) ↗
- U.S. Department of Justice: complaint, United States v. School Board of Osceola County (filed April 16, 2008) ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
2006
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Court rules Osceola County at-large commission elections violated Section 2
The Justice Department filed a complaint on July 18, 2005, challenging the at-large system for electing Osceola County's Board of Commissioners under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. On June 26, 2006, the court granted a preliminary injunction against the scheduled 2006 county commission elections. On October 18, 2006, after trial, the court issued a memorandum opinion ruling that the at-large method violated Section 2, and on December 8, 2006, it entered a remedial order adopting a five single-member district map submitted by the United States and agreed to by the parties.
- U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division: Cases Raising Claims Under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act (United States v. Osceola County (2005)) ↗
- U.S. Department of Justice: complaint, United States v. Osceola County (filed July 18, 2005) ↗
- U.S. Department of Justice: memorandum opinion, United States v. Osceola County (October 18, 2006) ↗
- U.S. Department of Justice: remedial order, United States v. Osceola County (December 8, 2006) ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Voters require 60 percent approval for state constitutional amendments
Article XI, Section 5(e) of the Florida Constitution says a proposed amendment or revision takes effect if "approved by vote of at least sixty percent of the electors voting on the measure." The section's history note reads "Am. H.J.R. 1723, 2005; adopted 2006." NBC 6 South Florida reported that before this change a simple majority was required.
- Florida Legislature: Constitution of the State of Florida, Article XI, Section 5(e) and history note ↗
- NBC 6 South Florida: Why didn't Amendment 3 and Amendment 4 pass in Florida? (Nov. 6, 2024) ↗ News report, NBC 6 South Florida
Source last checked Oct 21, 2026
2002
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Three-judge court signs consent decree in Justice Department suit over Orange County, Florida, bilingual poll workers
On June 28, 2002, the United States filed a complaint against Orange County, Florida (M.D. Fla.), alleging violations of Sections 203 and 208 of the Voting Rights Act: too few bilingual workers for its Spanish-speaking voters, and poll workers interfering with voters' choice of assistors. A consent decree signed by a three-judge court on October 8, 2002, required more bilingual poll workers and respect for voters' assistors of choice. It expired on January 31, 2005.
- U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division: Cases Raising Claims Under the Language Minority Provisions of the Voting Rights Act (United States v. Orange County, FL) ↗
- U.S. Department of Justice: complaint, United States v. Orange County (filed June 28, 2002) ↗
- U.S. Department of Justice: consent decree, United States v. Orange County (October 8, 2002) ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for 2 language groups in Broward County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on July 26, 2002 (67 FR 48871), lists Broward County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for these language minority groups: Hispanic; American Indian (Seminole). The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2011 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (67 FR 48871, July 26, 2002) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination file page, 2002 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the American Indian (Seminole) language group in Collier County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on July 26, 2002 (67 FR 48871), lists Collier County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: American Indian (Seminole). The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county's name does not appear in the county listings of the 2011 notice (76 FR 63602).
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (67 FR 48871, July 26, 2002) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination file page, 2002 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the American Indian (Seminole) language group in Glades County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on July 26, 2002 (67 FR 48871), lists Glades County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: American Indian (Seminole). The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county's name does not appear in the county listings of the 2011 notice (76 FR 63602).
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (67 FR 48871, July 26, 2002) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination file page, 2002 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Hardee County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on July 26, 2002 (67 FR 48871), lists Hardee County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2011 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (67 FR 48871, July 26, 2002) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination file page, 2002 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Hendry County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on July 26, 2002 (67 FR 48871), lists Hendry County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2011 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (67 FR 48871, July 26, 2002) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination file page, 2002 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Hillsborough County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on July 26, 2002 (67 FR 48871), lists Hillsborough County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2011 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (67 FR 48871, July 26, 2002) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination file page, 2002 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Miami-Dade County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on July 26, 2002 (67 FR 48871), lists Miami-Dade County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2011 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (67 FR 48871, July 26, 2002) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination file page, 2002 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Orange County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on July 26, 2002 (67 FR 48871), lists Orange County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2011 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (67 FR 48871, July 26, 2002) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination file page, 2002 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Osceola County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on July 26, 2002 (67 FR 48871), lists Osceola County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2011 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (67 FR 48871, July 26, 2002) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination file page, 2002 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal determination requires election materials for the Hispanic language group in Palm Beach County, Florida
The Director of the Census Bureau's notice, published in the Federal Register on July 26, 2002 (67 FR 48871), lists Palm Beach County, Florida, as covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for this language minority group: Hispanic. The notice says covered jurisdictions have a legal obligation to provide the minority language assistance that Section 203 prescribes; its table is titled bilingual election materials for voting rights. The county also appears in the 2011 notice.
- Federal Register notice, Voting Rights Act determinations under Section 203 (67 FR 48871, July 26, 2002) ↗
- Census Bureau Section 203 determination file page, 2002 ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Consent decree entered in Justice Department suit over Osceola County polling place treatment and language help
The Justice Department's complaint against Osceola County, Florida (M.D. Fla.), alleged that the county violated Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act through hostile treatment of Hispanic voters at the polls and failure to provide adequate language assistance, and violated Section 208 by not permitting voters to bring assistors of their choice into polling places. The parties entered a consent decree on July 22, 2002.
- U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division: Cases Raising Claims Under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act (United States v. Osceola County (2002)) ↗
- U.S. Department of Justice: complaint, United States v. Osceola County (2002) ↗
- U.S. Department of Justice: consent decree, United States v. Osceola County (July 22, 2002) ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Justice Department objects to the 2002 Florida House redistricting plan
Reviewing House Joint Resolution 1987 (2002) under Section 5, the Justice Department wrote that it could not conclude the State had met its burden and that "On behalf of the Attorney General, I must object to the 2002 redistricting plan for the Florida House of Representatives." The letter discusses Hispanic voters in proposed House District 101 in Collier County.
- Justice Department objection letter FL-1040 (State of Florida) ↗
- Justice Department: Voting Determination Letters for Florida ↗
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
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Justice Department sues Miami-Dade County over help for Creole-speaking voters at the polls
On June 7, 2002, the United States filed a complaint against Miami-Dade County, Florida (S.D. Fla.), alleging a violation of Section 208 of the Voting Rights Act arising from the November 2000 presidential election: that county poll officials effectively prevented Creole-speaking Haitian American voters with limited English from getting assistance at the polls from persons of their choice. On June 17, 2002, the court approved a consent order.
- U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division: Cases Raising Claims Under Section 208 of the Voting Rights Act (United States v. Miami-Dade County) ↗
- U.S. Department of Justice: complaint, United States v. Miami-Dade County (filed June 7, 2002) ↗
- U.S. Department of Justice: consent order, United States v. Miami-Dade County (June 17, 2002) ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
2001
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Florida Election Reform Act of 2001 bans punchcard voting and rewrites recount rules
Senate Bill 1118, approved by the Governor on May 10, 2001 as Chapter 2001-40, created the Florida Election Reform Act of 2001. It prohibited punchcard voting systems, set procedures for voting and counting provisional ballots, and substantially modified standards and procedures for manual recounts. The Eleventh Circuit has noted that by 2001 Florida "no longer required any excuse to vote absentee."
- Florida Senate: CS/SB 1118 (2001) ↗
- League of Women Voters of Florida v. Florida Secretary of State, No. 22-11143 (11th Cir. Apr. 27, 2023) ↗
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
2000
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Florida Supreme Court rules in the 2000 presidential recount dispute over Palm Beach, Broward and Volusia counties
In Palm Beach County Canvassing Board v. Harris, the Florida Supreme Court reviewed two trial court orders arising after the November 7, 2000 presidential election, in which the Division of Elections reported a margin of 1,784 votes. After an automatic recount, the Democratic Executive Committee requested manual recounts in Broward, Palm Beach and Volusia counties. The court wrote, "we reverse the orders of the trial court."
Counties: Palm Beach County, Broward County, Volusia County
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
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Miami-Dade canvassing board suspends its manual recount in the 2000 presidential election
The Florida Supreme Court's December 8, 2000 opinion in Gore v. Harris records that the Miami-Dade County Canvassing Board voted to begin a manual recount of all ballots cast in the county for the presidential election, that the recount began on November 19, 2000, and that the board "thereafter suspended the manual recount and voted to use the election returns previously compiled." The court wrote that the board "stated as its reasons that it stopped an ongoing manual recount because it determined that it could not meet this Court's certification deadline." The same opinion reversed the trial court and ordered the circuit court to tabulate by hand the approximately 9,000 Miami-Dade ballots the counting machine had registered as non-votes.
Source last checked Oct 21, 2026
1998
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Justice Department objects to new absentee ballot requirements and a criminal penalty in Senate Bill 1402
Reviewing Senate Bill 1402 (1998) as it affects Collier, Hardee, Hendry, Hillsborough and Monroe counties, the Justice Department did not object to several sections, but wrote: "I must object to the additional requirements for the absentee voting certificate and absentee ballot and the criminal penalty provided for in Section 26 (proposed Section 104.047 (3) of the Florida Election Code)."
- Justice Department objection letter FL-1030 (State of Florida) ↗
- Justice Department: Voting Determination Letters for Florida ↗
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
1992
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Justice Department objects to part of the 1992 Florida Senate plan in the Hillsborough area
Reviewing the 1992 legislative plans only as they affect Collier, Hardee, Hendry, Hillsborough and Monroe counties, the Justice Department did not object to the House plan, but wrote: "I must object to the 1992 redistricting plan for the Florida State Senate to the extent that it incorporates the proposed configurations for the area discussed above." The discussion concerned minority populations in the Tampa and St. Petersburg areas.
- Justice Department objection letter FL-1020 (State of Florida) ↗
- Justice Department: Voting Determination Letters for Florida ↗
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
1985
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Justice Department objects to part of a 1984 law on assistance to absentee voters in the five covered counties
Under Section 5, the Justice Department reviewed House Bill 619 (1984), which amended Florida's voter assistance provisions to follow Section 208 of the Voting Rights Act. It interposed no objection to amended Sections 97.061(3) and 101.051(1), but objected to Section 101.051(3), which barred a voter marking an absentee ballot at the supervisor of elections' office from receiving help from the supervisor, deputies or staff. The letter says that restriction "would contravene the provisions of the federal statute."
- Justice Department objection letter FL-1010 (State of Florida) ↗
- Justice Department: Voting Determination Letters for Florida ↗
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
1984
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Justice Department objects to parts of Hillsborough County's home rule charter and commissioner districts
Under Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act, the Justice Department reviewed Hillsborough County's home rule charter, a districting plan, an increase in county commissioners from five to seven, a change to four single-member districts and three at-large seats, and transfer of powers from the legislative delegation to the county commission. The letter states, "I must object to the transfer of legislative powers and other related changes." The Department's listing carries the note "Withdrawn 1-4-85."
- Justice Department objection letter FL-1000 (Hillsborough County) ↗
- Justice Department: Voting Determination Letters for Florida ↗
Source last checked Oct 26, 2026
Nationwide
2026
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Homeland Security appeals the injunction on its election field operations to the Ninth Circuit
On October 26, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security, its component agencies and the officials named in California Nurses Association v. Mullin (N.D. Cal., No. 4:26-cv-10680) filed a notice of appeal to the Ninth Circuit from Judge Araceli Martínez-Olguín's October 21 order granting a preliminary injunction against certain election-related field operations in nine states.
Source last checked Oct 27, 2026
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Democratic plaintiffs ask for fast-tracked discovery in their suit over federal pressure on election officials
On October 23, 2026, the plaintiffs in DSCC v. Trump (No. 1:26-cv-03674-JEB, U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia) filed a motion for expedited discovery. The plaintiffs are the DSCC, the DCCC, the Democratic Governors Association, Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer, House Minority Leader Hakeem S. Jeffries, the Nevada State Democratic Party and Erick Jose Jimenez. The motion asks for all non-privileged communications the defendants have sent since July 1, 2026 to state or local election officials demanding or requesting that they remove specific registered voters from statewide lists, refuse ballots to specific voters, or set aside or not count ballots returned by specific voters, plus answers to interrogatories. It says the plaintiffs are "seriously contemplating" a request for emergency relief before the November 3 election, and cites an October 21, 2026 order allowing narrow expedited discovery in NAACP v. DHS in the same court.
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal judge bars Homeland Security election field operations aimed at people believed to be citizens in nine states
On October 21, 2026, Judge Araceli Martínez-Olguín of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California granted a preliminary injunction in California Nurses Association v. Mullin (No. 4:26-cv-10680), a suit by the California Nurses Association, National Nurses United, the City and County of San Francisco, the County of Santa Clara and the Voto Latino Foundation. The order says that in August 2026 the Department of Homeland Security started an "Unlawful Voter Initiative" that had Citizenship and Immigration Services build lists of people to investigate, and that an August 31 guidance told agents to prioritize field questioning about voter eligibility in California, Connecticut, Georgia, Missouri, Nevada, New York, Pennsylvania, Washington and Wisconsin. The court enjoined the department from election-related field operations and interviews in those nine states that involve people it knows, suspects or should reasonably suspect are U.S. citizens, and from field operations there based wholly on records from its voter eligibility matching. The order runs until polls close on November 3, 2026, and was stayed until 5 p.m. on October 23, 2026.
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Justice Department begins notifying counties it wants to monitor on Election Day 2026
NPR reported on October 21, 2026 that the Justice Department began notifying counties it wants to monitor on Election Day starting Tuesday, October 20. NPR confirmed notices to Adams County, Colorado; seven counties in Texas; King County, Washington; Miami-Dade County, Florida; and Hennepin and Ramsey counties in Minnesota. NPR reports that state officials were at first not notified at the same time as counties, and that a department spokesperson said it prioritizes places with competitive elections and would monitor Adams County because it is covered by Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act. Colorado's Secretary of State's office told NPR it was considering how to respond, since state rules require observers to have its permission unless a court orders otherwise.
- The Justice Department begins notifying counties where it wants to monitor elections ↗ News report, NPR
Source last checked Oct 22, 2026
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Appeals in the Massachusetts Executive Order 14399 and Postal Service cases are voluntarily dismissed
On October 15, 2026, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit entered judgment in Nos. 26-1987, 26-1988, 26-1989 and 26-1991, appeals in State of California v. United States Postal Service and League of Women Voters of Massachusetts v. Trump. Upon the appellants' unopposed motions, the court ordered "that these appeals be voluntarily dismissed" under Federal Rule of Appellate Procedure 42(b)(2), with the mandate to issue forthwith. The judgment was entered on the district court docket on October 16, 2026.
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal court vacates Justice Department voter-roll policy in Common Cause v. Department of Justice
On October 9, 2026, Judge Sparkle Sooknanan of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia granted summary judgment to the plaintiffs, who challenged a Civil Rights Division policy of demanding state voter registration lists and urging removals. The opinion says "The Court therefore sets aside and vacates the challenged policy under the Administrative Procedure Act." The Justice Department argued it has statutory authority for the policy.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Democratic leaders and party committees sue to bar federal orders removing voters or holding back ballots
The Associated Press reported on October 21, 2026 that Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer, House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries, the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee and the Democratic Governors Association sued in federal court in Washington (the AP says the suit was filed Tuesday, October 20). The suit names President Trump, the Justice Department, Attorney General Todd Blanche, the Department of Homeland Security and Secretary Markwayne Mullin. It asks for an order barring the administration from removing legally registered voters from statewide voter lists or denying ballots to them, and a ruling that the administration illegally threatened state election officials with prosecution. It cites the Justice Department's suit over California mail ballots. The AP reports the case was assigned to Chief Judge James Boasberg and that the Justice Department said its actions are grounded in law.
- Democrats sue to block Trump administration from usurping states' authority to administer elections (AP, Oct. 21, 2026) ↗ News report, Associated Press (via WKMG)
- "Democratic-Aligned Groups Sue Over Federal Crackdown on Voting" (quoting The New York Times) ↗ News report, Election Law Blog
- Docket, DSCC v. Trump, No. 1:26-cv-03674 (D.D.C., filed October 20, 2026) ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Supreme Court grants stay in Department of Homeland Security v. League of Women Voters, on voter citizenship checks
On September 25, 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court, in a per curiam order on an application for stay, granted the government's request in a case about the modified SAVE program, which lets state and local agencies check the citizenship status of registered voters against Social Security Administration records. The Court said it was "likely to reverse the District Court's holding that the federal defendants violated the Social Security Act, the Privacy Act, and the APA." The order says that Executive Order 14248 directed the Department of Homeland Security to put new systems in place for that purpose.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Civil rights and labor groups sue over possible federal immigration agents near polling places
On September 18, 2026, a coalition of nine civil rights and union groups sued in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to prevent the deployment of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to polling locations in November. States Newsroom reported it as the second such suit that month. The groups argue the policy violates the federal law that bars "armed men" at election sites and the Voting Rights Act's bar on intimidation. A Justice Department spokesperson said: "The DOJ has never said it would send federal law enforcement to polling locations." A Homeland Security spokesperson said ICE was not planning operations that targeted polling locations. No ruling is recorded here.
- U.S. District Court, D.D.C.: NAACP v. U.S. Department of Homeland Security, No. 1:26-cv-03263, Complaint (Doc. 1, filed September 18, 2026; CourtListener copy) ↗
- A second lawsuit challenges plans to put ICE agents near polling places (September 21, 2026) ↗ News report, Government Executive (States Newsroom)
Source last checked Oct 21, 2026
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Federal court in Washington enjoins the Postal Service ballot mail rule
On September 13, 2026, Judge Carl Nichols of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia granted preliminary injunctions against the Postal Service's final ballot-mail rule in three consolidated cases. The opinion says "no statute grants the Postal Service the power to issue key parts of the Rule" and that plaintiffs are likely to succeed on their claim that the rule was ultra vires.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Census Bureau proposes residence criteria for the 2030 census that would exclude some noncitizens from the apportionment count
On September 10, 2026 the Census Bureau, an agency of the Department of Commerce, published a proposed rule in the Federal Register (91 FR 57524, Docket No. 260903-0005, RIN 0607-AA75) that would add two new parts to the Code of Federal Regulations: residence criteria for the decennial census, and standards and restrictions for demographic questions on the census questionnaire. On residence, the notice states that "the Census Bureau proposes to include lawful permanent residents within the apportionment base, while excluding from the apportionment base illegal aliens and aliens whose legal status is less durable and indefinite in length than lawful permanent resident status," and says it is considering using administrative records to determine legal status. The comment period, first set to end October 13, 2026, was extended to November 2, 2026 by a notice published October 5, 2026. Al Jazeera and CNBC reported on the proposal, and CNBC reported that opponents expect litigation.
- Decennial Census of the Population of Americans; Proposed Residence Criteria and Proposed Regulations for Demographic Questions, 91 Fed. Reg. 57524 (Sept. 10, 2026) (GovInfo) ↗
- Same proposed rule, extension of comment period, 91 Fed. Reg. 63207 (Oct. 5, 2026) (GovInfo) ↗
- Trump administration proposes excluding certain immigrants from US census (September 10, 2026) ↗ News report, Al Jazeera
- CNBC report on the proposed 2030 census rule (October 13, 2026) ↗ News report, CNBC
Source last checked Oct 22, 2026
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Latino and voting groups and the City of Denver sue over armed immigration agents at polling places
On September 10, 2026, the League of United Latin American Citizens, Common Cause, Common Cause Education Fund, UnidosUS and the City and County of Denver, Colorado filed a complaint in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia (No. 1:26-cv-03157) against the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and their leaders. The complaint alleges that the Homeland Security Secretary's statements of September 1, 2026 set a policy of authorizing armed Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers to go to polling places, which the plaintiffs say violates 18 U.S.C. § 592, the law that bars federal officials from keeping "any troops or armed men at any place where a general or special election is held" except to repel armed enemies of the United States. No ruling is recorded in this entry.
- Complaint, League of United Latin American Citizens v. U.S. Department of Homeland Security, No. 1:26-cv-03157 (D.D.C. filed Sept. 10, 2026) (CourtListener RECAP copy) ↗
- Docket, No. 1:26-cv-03157 (D.D.C.) (CourtListener) ↗
Source last checked Oct 21, 2026
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First Circuit refuses to stay the Massachusetts preliminary injunction against parts of the Postal Service ballot-mail rule
On September 4, 2026, Judge Indira Talwani of the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts entered a memorandum and order granting the plaintiffs' motions for a preliminary injunction in League of Women Voters of Massachusetts v. Trump and the related states' case (Nos. 1:26-cv-11549 and 1:26-cv-13917), and the federal defendants and twelve intervening states appealed the same day. On September 10, 2026, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit (Nos. 26-2029 to 26-2032) denied the motions for a stay. Its order says the district court concluded the final rule was likely unconstitutional and found it would be impossible for states to comply in the time left before November 3, and that the appellants "have failed to meet their burden for disturbing any aspect of the district court's preliminary injunction order." The Postal Service's request for an administrative stay was denied as moot.
- League of Women Voters of Massachusetts v. Trump, 1st Cir. Nos. 26-2029 to 26-2032, order of court entered September 10, 2026 (D. Mass. Doc. 296) ↗
- Docket, League of Women Voters of Massachusetts v. Trump, No. 1:26-cv-11549 (D. Mass.), entries 285 to 287 (September 4, 2026) ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal court in Massachusetts temporarily stays parts of the Postal Service ballot-mail rule for the 2026 election
On August 27, 2026, Judge Indira Talwani of the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts granted in part the plaintiffs' motions for a temporary restraining order in League of Women Voters of Massachusetts v. Trump (No. 1:26-cv-11549) and State of California v. United States Postal Service (No. 1:26-cv-13917). The court granted "an emergency fourteen-day stay" of listed sections of the final rule as to elections on or before November 3, 2026, including the sections making the ballot mail envelope standards and registration in the Postal Service Federal Ballot Mail Portal mandatory, and ordered that the Postal Service defendants "may take no further preparatory steps" to implement them for those elections. The motions for preliminary injunctions remained under advisement.
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Postal Service issues final rule on ballot mail for federal elections
The Postal Service's final rule "Ballot Mail for Federal Elections" was published August 26, 2026 and states that it is effective August 21, 2026. It says it responds to Executive Order 14399 and received "more than 200,000 responses" during the comment period. The rule says that, because of injunctions in two Massachusetts cases, the Postal Service "will not take actions to implement the rule specifically for the 2026 election" unless the government obtains relief from them. On September 13, 2026, a federal court in Washington granted preliminary injunctions against the rule.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Federal court in Massachusetts finds the government violated its injunction by issuing the Postal Service ballot-mail rule
On August 25, 2026, Judge Indira Talwani of the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts ruled on an emergency motion to enforce the preliminary injunction in League of Women Voters of Massachusetts v. Trump (No. 1:26-cv-11549). The order says the Postal Service completed rulemaking on Friday evening, August 21, 2026, by sending a final rule implementing Section 3 of Executive Order 14399 to the Office of the Federal Register, although the injunction barred "initiating or completing rulemaking" for the November 3, 2026 election. The court "finds that Defendants violated the court's Preliminary Injunction but imposes no remedy other than identifying the violation."
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Supreme Court stays the Massachusetts injunction against parts of Executive Order 14399 in Trump v. California
On August 24, 2026, in No. 26A124 (with No. 26A139), the Supreme Court granted the Government's application for a stay in a per curiam opinion. The Court wrote that "the Government is likely to prevail on the merits of its argument that the District Court lacked jurisdiction to enter the judgment," because the Order "imposes no obligations on the States" and the States had not shown an injury that gives them standing. The injunction entered in No. 1:26-cv-11581 (D. Mass.) is stayed pending appeal to the First Circuit and any petition for certiorari. The Court added that its ruling "does not mean that any measure taken by the Government to implement the Order will necessarily be lawful." Justices Sotomayor and Jackson filed dissents. The application in No. 26A139 was denied as moot.
Source last checked Oct 21, 2026
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Justice Department appeals the dismissal of its District of Columbia voter-list suit
On August 17, 2026, the United States filed a notice of appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit from the August 6, 2026 memorandum opinion and order denying its motion to compel records in United States v. Evans (No. 1:25-cv-04403).
- Notice of appeal, United States v. Evans (D.D.C. Aug. 17, 2026) ↗
- CourtListener docket, United States v. Evans ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Federal court in Massachusetts enjoins Postal Service implementation of Section 3 of Executive Order 14399
On August 11, 2026, Judge Indira Talwani of the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts granted a renewed motion for a preliminary injunction in League of Women Voters of Massachusetts v. Trump. As to elections on or before November 3, 2026, the court "ENJOINS the USPS's implementation of Section 3 of the EO."
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Federal judge dismisses the Justice Department's suit for the District of Columbia's voter registration list
On August 6, 2026, Judge Randolph D. Moss of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia denied the United States' motion to compel in United States v. Evans (No. 1:25-cv-04403), dismissed the case, and denied the defendants' and intervenors' motions to dismiss as moot, stating that the order was a final judgment. The order refers to a memorandum opinion filed the same day. The lead defendant is Monica H. Evans, executive director of the District of Columbia Board of Elections.
- Order, United States v. Evans (D.D.C. Aug. 6, 2026) ↗
- CourtListener docket, United States v. Evans ↗
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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House passes bill with a photo-ID voting requirement; Senate cloture vote fails, 53-47, on September 30, 2026
On July 22, 2026, the House passed H.R. 7008, the Stop Insider Trading Act, by 232 to 198 (Roll no. 280). Section 3 of the House-passed text is titled "Requiring voters to provide photo identification." On September 30, 2026, the Senate voted 53 to 47 on cloture on the motion to proceed, and the bill record says cloture was "not invoked" (Record Vote 253).
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Supreme Court decides Watson v. Republican National Committee
On June 29, 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court held that "The federal election-day statutes do not prevent Mississippi from counting absentee ballots postmarked by election day but received up to five days thereafter; nothing in the federal election-day statutes requires ballots to be received by election day."
Source last checked Oct 22, 2026
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Federal court in Massachusetts declares parts of Executive Order 14399 void in a suit by states
On June 25, 2026, Judge Indira Talwani of the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts granted summary judgment to a group of states and the District of Columbia. The court ordered and declared that "Sections 2 and 3 of the EO are legally void as they are ultra vires and unconstitutionally violate the separation of powers, and that Section 5 of the EO is merely precatory," and enjoined agencies from implementing Sections 2 and 3 for the November 3, 2026 or any earlier federal election in the plaintiff states.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Postal Service proposes a rule on ballot mail for federal elections
On June 2, 2026, the Postal Service published a proposed rule, "Ballot Mail for Federal Elections," to amend its Domestic Mail Manual on the transmission of mail-in or absentee ballots for federal elections. The final rule says the comment period closed on July 2, 2026.
- Ballot Mail for Federal Elections (proposed rule), 91 Fed. Reg. 32915 (GovInfo) ↗
- Ballot Mail for Federal Elections (final rule), 91 Fed. Reg. 54966 (GovInfo) ↗
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Federal court in Washington denies preliminary injunctions against Executive Order 14399
On May 28, 2026, Judge Carl Nichols of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia denied motions for preliminary injunctions in three consolidated cases against Executive Order 14399. On the postal-rulemaking provision the court wrote that, because the Postal Service had not yet issued a proposed rule, "Plaintiffs' claims are not ripe."
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Supreme Court vacates the Eighth Circuit judgment in Turtle Mountain v. Howe and remands in light of Louisiana v. Callais
On May 18, 2026, the Supreme Court granted the petition in No. 25-253, vacated the Eighth Circuit's judgment and remanded the case for further consideration in light of Louisiana v. Callais. Justice Jackson dissented, writing that the case "presents only the question of Section 2's private enforceability, which our decision in Louisiana v. Callais ... did not address," and that she would summarily reverse. The docket records the Court's judgment as issued on June 22, 2026.
Source last checked Oct 21, 2026
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Supreme Court decides Louisiana v. Callais
On April 29, 2026, after reargument on October 15, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court held: "Because the Voting Rights Act did not require Louisiana to create an additional majority-minority district, no compelling interest justified the State's use of race in creating SB8, and that map is an unconstitutional racial gerrymander."
Source last checked Oct 22, 2026
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President signs Executive Order 14399 on citizenship verification and mail ballots
Executive Order 14399, "Ensuring Citizenship Verification and Integrity in Federal Elections," is dated March 31, 2026 and was published in the Federal Register on April 3, 2026. Section 2 directs the Department of Homeland Security to compile and transmit to each state a "State Citizenship List." Section 3 directs the Postmaster General to begin a rulemaking on mail-in and absentee ballots within 60 days. Courts later enjoined parts of the Postal Service rule that followed.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Justice Department's voter roll lawsuits reach 29 states and the District of Columbia
On February 26, 2026, the Justice Department announced lawsuits against Utah, Oklahoma, Kentucky, West Virginia and New Jersey over their full voter registration lists. Court outcomes in the individual suits are not recorded in this entry. The release says this "brings the Justice Department's nationwide total to 29 states and the District of Columbia."
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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House passes SAVE America Act text as an amendment to S. 1383, 218-213
On February 11, 2026, the House passed S. 1383 with an amendment in the nature of a substitute, by 218 to 213 (Roll no. 69). The House-passed text is titled the "SAVE America Act." On March 17, 2026, the Senate agreed 51 to 48 to a motion to proceed to the House message on S. 1383 (Record Vote 57). On March 21, 2026, a cloture vote on a related motion was "not invoked" by 41 to 49 (Record Vote 61). The bill record lists no final Senate vote, and it did not become law.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Supreme Court decides Bost v. Illinois State Board of Elections
On January 14, 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court held that "As a candidate for office, Congressman Bost has standing to challenge the rules that govern the counting of votes in his election."
Source last checked Oct 22, 2026
2025
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Postal Service adds a Domestic Mail Manual section defining postmarks
On November 24, 2025, the Postal Service published a final rule adding section 608.11, "Postmarks and Postal Possession," to the Domestic Mail Manual, effective December 24, 2025. It says the new language "does not change any existing postal operations or postmarking practices" and is intended to improve public understanding of postmarks and the date of mailing.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Federal court permanently bars the Election Assistance Commission from implementing Section 2(a) of Executive Order 14248
On October 31, 2025, the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia granted partial summary judgment to the plaintiffs and permanently enjoined the Election Assistance Commission, its commissioners and its executive director from implementing Section 2(a) of Executive Order 14248. The court wrote that "this Court holds that the President lacks the authority to direct such changes" to federal election procedures.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Justice Department announces it will monitor polling sites in six California and New Jersey counties
On October 24, 2025, the Justice Department announced that it would monitor polling sites ahead of the November 4, 2025 general election in six jurisdictions: Passaic County, New Jersey, and Kern, Riverside, Fresno, Orange and Los Angeles counties, California. The release says the Civil Rights Division would deploy personnel who would coordinate with U.S. Attorney's Offices.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Justice Department sues Oregon and Maine for statewide voter registration lists
On September 16, 2025, the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division announced lawsuits against Oregon and Maine and their secretaries of state, alleging violations of the National Voter Registration Act, the Help America Vote Act and the Civil Rights Act of 1960 by refusing to provide unredacted statewide voter registration lists and information on voter list maintenance. Court outcomes in the individual suits are not recorded in this entry.
Source last checked Oct 24, 2026
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Supreme Court stays Eighth Circuit mandate in Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians v. Howe
On July 24, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court granted an application in No. 25A62, staying the issuance of the mandate of the Eighth Circuit in No. 23-3655 pending the filing and disposition of a petition for certiorari. Justices Thomas, Alito and Gorsuch would have denied it. The applicants wrote that "private plaintiffs can no longer enforce Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act (VRA) in the Eighth Circuit" as a result of the decision below. Later steps in the case are not recorded in this entry.
- Docket 25A62, Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians v. Howe (U.S. Supreme Court) ↗
- Application for stay, No. 25A62 (U.S. Supreme Court docket) ↗
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Federal court in Massachusetts blocks parts of Executive Order 14248 in a suit by 19 states
On June 13, 2025, Judge Denise Casper of the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts granted a preliminary injunction in a suit by attorneys general of nineteen states. The court enjoined implementation of Sections 2(a), 2(d), 3(d), 7(a) and 7(b) of Executive Order 14248, and said the injunction as to Sections 2(a), 2(d) and 3(d) applies as to all states.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Eighth Circuit holds private plaintiffs cannot use Section 1983 to enforce Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act
On May 14, 2025, a divided Eighth Circuit panel in Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians v. Howe, No. 23-3655, wrote that "private plaintiffs" cannot "maintain a private right of action for alleged violations of § 2 through 42 U.S.C. § 1983." It vacated the North Dakota district court's judgment and remanded with instructions that the case be dismissed for want of a cause of action. Chief Judge Colloton dissented, writing that he would affirm the district court's judgment. The panel relied on its 2023 decision in Arkansas State Conference NAACP v. Arkansas Board of Apportionment, which held that Section 2 has no implied private right of action.
Source last checked Oct 23, 2026
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Federal court in Washington blocks parts of Executive Order 14248
On April 24, 2025, Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia granted preliminary injunctions in three consolidated cases. The court enjoined the Election Assistance Commission from implementing Section 2(a) of Executive Order 14248 (documentary proof of citizenship on the federal voter registration form) and enjoined certain agencies from implementing Section 2(d). It denied the motions as to Sections 2(b), 7(a) and 7(b).
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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House passes SAVE Act, 220-208; Senate does not act
On April 10, 2025, the House passed H.R. 22, the SAVE Act, by 220 to 208 (Roll no. 102). The bill was received in the Senate the same day; the bill record lists no later action, and it did not become law.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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President signs Executive Order 14248 on federal elections
Executive Order 14248, "Preserving and Protecting the Integrity of American Elections," is dated March 25, 2025 and was published in the Federal Register on March 28, 2025. Section 2 is titled "Enforcing the Citizenship Requirement for Federal Elections," Section 4 "Improving the Election Assistance Commission," and Section 7 "Compliance with Federal Law Setting the National Election Day." Courts later enjoined parts of it.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
2024
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Supreme Court decides Alexander v. South Carolina State Conference of the NAACP
On May 23, 2024, the U.S. Supreme Court held that "The District Court's finding that race predominated in the design of District 1 in the Enacted Plan was clearly erroneous" in a challenge to South Carolina's congressional map.
Source last checked Oct 22, 2026
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Supreme Court decides Trump v. Anderson
On March 4, 2024, the U.S. Supreme Court held that "Because the Constitution makes Congress, rather than the States, responsible for enforcing Section 3 against federal officeholders and candidates, the Colorado Supreme Court erred in ordering former President Trump excluded from Colorado's 2024 Presidential primary ballot."
Source last checked Oct 23, 2026
2023
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Supreme Court decides Moore v. Harper
On June 27, 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court held that "The Elections Clause does not insulate state legislatures from the ordinary exercise of state judicial review." The case arose from a challenge to North Carolina's congressional map.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Supreme Court decides Allen v. Milligan
On June 8, 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court affirmed a lower court's finding that voters had shown a reasonable likelihood of success in claiming that the congressional map Alabama adopted for its 2022 elections (HB1) violates Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. The lower court had preliminarily barred Alabama from using that map.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
2022
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Electoral Count Reform Act of 2022 becomes law
Division P of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023 (Public Law 117-328, signed December 29, 2022) may be cited as the "Electoral Count Reform and Presidential Transition Improvement Act of 2022." Title I may be cited as the "Electoral Count Reform Act of 2022."
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Senate cloture on the Freedom to Vote: John R. Lewis Act fails, 49-51
On January 19, 2022, the Senate voted 49 to 51 on cloture on the motion to concur in the House amendment to H.R. 5746, the Freedom to Vote: John R. Lewis Act, and cloture was "not invoked" (Record Vote 9). The bill record also lists a motion by Senator Schumer to appeal the ruling of the chair as "not agreed to," on the question "Shall the decision of the Chair stand as the judgement of the Senate," by 52 to 48 (Record Vote 10). The bill did not become law.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
2021
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Senate vote to begin debate on the Freedom to Vote Act fails, 49-51
On October 20, 2021, the Senate voted 49 to 51 on cloture on the motion to proceed to S. 2747, the Freedom to Vote Act. The bill record says cloture was "not invoked" (Record Vote 420). The bill did not become law.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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House passes John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act; Senate cloture vote on November 3, 2021 is 50-49 and fails
On August 24, 2021, the House passed H.R. 4, the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2021, by 219 to 212 (Roll no. 260). On November 3, 2021, a Senate vote on cloture on the motion to proceed to the companion bill, S. 4, was 50 to 49 and cloture was "not invoked" (Record Vote 459). Neither bill became law.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Census Bureau releases 2020 redistricting data for states
On August 12, 2021, the Census Bureau released the 2020 Census Redistricting Data (Public Law 94-171) Summary File, which it described as delivering data for states to begin redistricting. On September 16, 2021, it released the same data in an easier-to-use format on data.census.gov and delivered a toolkit to states.
- Census Bureau press release CB21-CN.55, August 12, 2021 ↗
- Census Bureau press release CB21-CN.63, September 16, 2021 ↗
Source last checked Oct 22, 2026
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Supreme Court decides Brnovich v. Democratic National Committee
On July 1, 2021, the U.S. Supreme Court held that "Arizona's out-of-precinct policy and HB 2023 do not violate § 2 of the VRA, and HB 2023 was not enacted with a racially discriminatory purpose." The case concerned rules on counting ballots cast in the wrong precinct and on who may collect early ballots.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Census Bureau announces 2020 Census apportionment results
On April 26, 2021, the Census Bureau announced that the 2020 Census resident population of the United States on April 1, 2020 was 331,449,281, and that Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo delivered the population counts used for apportionment of the U.S. House to the President.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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For the People Act of 2021 passes the House; Senate committee discharge vote is 50-49 and the bill stalls
On March 3, 2021, the House passed H.R. 1, the For the People Act of 2021, by 220 to 210 (Roll no. 62). On June 22, 2021, the Senate voted 50 to 50 (Roll call 246) on cloture on the motion to proceed to S. 2093, the For the People Act of 2021, which required 3/5 of the Senate; the Senate roll call records the result as "Cloture on the Motion to Proceed Rejected." On August 11, 2021, the Senate voted 50 to 49 to discharge its Rules and Administration Committee from the companion bill, S. 1 (Roll call 358). The bill records list no Senate vote on passage, and neither bill became law.
- H.R. 1 (117th Congress) bill status, GovInfo ↗
- S. 1 (117th Congress) bill status, GovInfo ↗
- U.S. Senate Roll Call Vote 117th Congress, 1st Session, Vote 246 (June 22, 2021) ↗
Source last checked Oct 22, 2026
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Election Assistance Commission adopts Voluntary Voting System Guidelines 2.0
The Election Assistance Commission says that on February 10, 2021 its commissioners unanimously adopted version 2.0 of the Voluntary Voting System Guidelines, the specifications against which voting systems are tested. The EAC says it stopped using versions 1.0 and 1.1 to certify voting systems as of November 16, 2023, and that previously certified systems are not decertified by that change.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
2020
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Supreme Court denies Texas's motion to file a suit over other states' 2020 election procedures
On December 11, 2020, the U.S. Supreme Court ordered in Texas v. Pennsylvania: "The State of Texas's motion for leave to file a bill of complaint is denied for lack of standing under Article III of the Constitution. Texas has not demonstrated a judicially cognizable interest in the manner in which another State conducts its elections."
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
2019
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House passes Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2019; no Senate vote follows
On December 6, 2019, the House passed H.R. 4, the Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2019, by 228 to 187 (Roll no. 654). It was received in the Senate on December 9, 2019 and referred to the Judiciary Committee; the bill record lists no Senate vote, and it did not become law.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Supreme Court decides Department of Commerce v. New York, on a census citizenship question
On June 27, 2019, the U.S. Supreme Court decided a challenge to the Commerce Secretary's decision to add a citizenship question to the 2020 census. The syllabus says "The Enumeration Clause permits Congress, and by extension the Secretary, to inquire about citizenship on the census questionnaire," and the judgment was "affirmed in part, reversed in part, and remanded."
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Supreme Court decides Rucho v. Common Cause
On June 27, 2019, the U.S. Supreme Court decided cases from North Carolina and Maryland in which voters challenged congressional maps as partisan. The Court held that such claims present "political questions beyond the reach of the federal courts."
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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House passes For the People Act of 2019; no Senate vote follows
On March 8, 2019, the House passed H.R. 1, the For the People Act of 2019, by 234 to 193 (Roll no. 118). The bill was received in the Senate on March 12, 2019 and placed on the Senate calendar; the bill record lists no Senate vote on passage, and it did not become law.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
2018
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President signs Executive Order 13848 on foreign interference in U.S. elections
Executive Order 13848, dated September 12, 2018, imposes sanctions authority in the event of foreign interference in a U.S. election. The order says "there has been no evidence of a foreign power altering the outcome or vote tabulation in any United States election" and declares a national emergency over the threat of interference.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Supreme Court decides Gill v. Whitford
On June 18, 2018, the U.S. Supreme Court reviewed a challenge to Wisconsin's state legislative map as a partisan one. The Court held that "The plaintiffs have failed to demonstrate Article III standing."
Source last checked Oct 23, 2026
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Supreme Court decides Husted v. A. Philip Randolph Institute
On June 11, 2018, the U.S. Supreme Court held that "The process that Ohio uses to remove voters on change-of-residence grounds does not violate the Failure-to-Vote Clause or any other part of the NVRA."
- Husted v. A. Philip Randolph Institute, 584 U.S. 756 (2018), U.S. Reports, Volume 584 (Supreme Court) ↗
- Husted v. A. Philip Randolph Institute, No. 16-980 (U.S. June 11, 2018), syllabus and opinions (Cornell Legal Information Institute copy) ↗
Source last checked Oct 22, 2026
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President terminates the Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity
Executive Order 13820, dated January 3, 2018 and published January 8, 2018, revoked Executive Order 13799 and states that "the Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity is accordingly terminated."
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
2017
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Supreme Court decides Cooper v. Harris
On May 22, 2017, the U.S. Supreme Court reviewed North Carolina's congressional Districts 1 and 12. The syllabus says the lower court "did not err in concluding that race furnished the predominant rationale for District 1's redesign and that the State's interest in complying with the VRA could not justify that consideration of race."
Source last checked Oct 23, 2026
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President establishes the Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity
Executive Order 13799, dated May 11, 2017 and published May 16, 2017, established the Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity, chaired by the Vice President, to "study the registration and voting processes used in Federal elections."
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Homeland Security designates election infrastructure as critical infrastructure
On January 6, 2017, Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson said he had determined "that election infrastructure in this country should be designated as a subsector of the existing Government Facilities critical infrastructure sector." The statement defines election infrastructure as including "storage facilities, polling places, and centralized vote tabulations locations" and voter registration databases and voting machines.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
2016
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Supreme Court decides Evenwel v. Abbott
On April 4, 2016, the U.S. Supreme Court held that "a State or locality may draw its legislative districts based on total population," according to its syllabus.
Source last checked Oct 23, 2026
2013
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Supreme Court decides Shelby County v. Holder
On June 25, 2013, the U.S. Supreme Court held that Section 4 of the Voting Rights Act is unconstitutional and that its formula can no longer be used as a basis for requiring places to get federal approval ("preclearance") before changing voting procedures.
Source last checked Oct 23, 2026
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Supreme Court decides Arizona v. Inter Tribal Council of Arizona
On June 17, 2013, the U.S. Supreme Court held that "Arizona's evidence-of-citizenship requirement, as applied to Federal Form applicants, is pre-empted by the NVRA's mandate that States 'accept and use' the Federal Form."
Source last checked Oct 23, 2026
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President establishes the Presidential Commission on Election Administration
Executive Order 13639, dated March 28, 2013 and published April 3, 2013, established the Presidential Commission on Election Administration. The order says the commission "shall identify best practices and otherwise make recommendations to promote the efficient administration of elections."
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
2009
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Military and Overseas Voter Empowerment Act becomes law
Section 575 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010 (Public Law 111-84, dated October 28, 2009) may be cited as the "Military and Overseas Voter Empowerment Act." It adds a requirement that states transmit a validly requested absentee ballot to an absent uniformed services voter or overseas voter not later than 45 days before a federal election, when the request is received at least 45 days before it.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Supreme Court decides Northwest Austin Municipal Utility District No. One v. Holder
On June 22, 2009, the U.S. Supreme Court held that the Voting Rights Act "must be interpreted to permit all political subdivisions, including the district, to seek to bail out from the preclearance requirements," and so did not decide the constitutional question. The syllabus also says the Act "now raises serious constitutional concerns."
Source last checked Oct 23, 2026
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Supreme Court decides Bartlett v. Strickland
On March 9, 2009, the U.S. Supreme Court affirmed a North Carolina ruling. A three-Justice opinion concluded that Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act "does not require state officials to draw election-district lines to allow a racial minority that would make up less than 50 percent of the voting-age population in the redrawn district to join with crossover voters to elect the minority's candidate of choice."
Source last checked Oct 23, 2026
2008
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Supreme Court decides Crawford v. Marion County Election Board
On April 28, 2008, the U.S. Supreme Court affirmed the ruling upholding Indiana's photo identification law (SEA 483). Justice Stevens, joined by two other Justices, concluded that "the evidence in the record does not support a facial attack on SEA 483's validity."
Source last checked Oct 23, 2026
2006
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Supreme Court decides Purcell v. Gonzalez
On October 20, 2006, the U.S. Supreme Court vacated a Ninth Circuit order that had blocked Arizona's new voter identification requirements before the November election. The Court said that vacating the order "shall of necessity allow the election to proceed without an injunction suspending the requirements" and expressed "no opinion on the correct disposition of the appeals."
Source last checked Oct 23, 2026
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Voting Rights Act reauthorized and amended in 2006
Public Law 109-246, dated July 27, 2006, may be cited as the "Fannie Lou Hamer, Rosa Parks, and Coretta Scott King Voting Rights Act Reauthorization and Amendments Act of 2006." Among other changes it amended Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act and replaced the references to the 1982 amendments in Section 4(a).
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Supreme Court decides LULAC v. Perry
On June 28, 2006, the U.S. Supreme Court decided challenges to Texas's 2003 congressional redistricting. The Court's syllabus says "Texas' redrawing of District 23's lines amounts to vote dilution violative of § 2 of the Voting Rights Act of 1965."
Source last checked Oct 23, 2026
2002
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Help America Vote Act of 2002 becomes law
Public Law 107-252, dated October 29, 2002, is titled, in part, "To establish a program to provide funds to States to replace punch card voting systems, to establish the Election Assistance Commission" to assist in the administration of federal elections, and "to establish minimum election administration standards for States and units of local government with responsibility for the administration of Federal elections."
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
2000
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Supreme Court decides Bush v. Gore
On December 12, 2000, the U.S. Supreme Court, in a per curiam opinion, reversed the Florida Supreme Court's order for manual recounts. The Court's syllabus says "any recount seeking to meet 3 U.S.C. § 5's December 12 'safe-harbor' date would be unconstitutional under the Equal Protection Clause."
Source last checked Oct 23, 2026
1993
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Supreme Court decides Shaw v. Reno
On June 28, 1993, the U.S. Supreme Court held that voters stated a claim under the Equal Protection Clause by alleging that a reapportionment plan was "so irrational on its face that it can be understood only as an effort to segregate voters into separate districts on the basis of race," without sufficient justification.
Source last checked Oct 23, 2026
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National Voter Registration Act of 1993 becomes law
Public Law 103-31, the National Voter Registration Act of 1993, is dated May 20, 1993. The law states its purpose as "to establish procedures that will increase the number of eligible citizens who register to vote in elections for Federal office."
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
1986
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Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act becomes law
Public Law 99-410, dated August 28, 1986, may be cited as the "Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act." Its subject is voting in federal elections by members of the uniformed services and by citizens living overseas.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
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Supreme Court decides Thornburg v. Gingles
On June 30, 1986, the U.S. Supreme Court decided its first case under the 1982 version of Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. The syllabus says minority voters who contend that a multimember form of districting violates Section 2 "must prove that the use of a multimember electoral structure operates to minimize or cancel out their ability to elect their preferred candidates."
Source last checked Oct 23, 2026
1984
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Voting Accessibility for the Elderly and Handicapped Act becomes law
Public Law 98-435, dated September 28, 1984, is titled "To improve access for handicapped and elderly individuals to registration facilities and polling places for Federal elections."
Source last checked Oct 22, 2026
1982
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Voting Rights Act Amendments of 1982 become law
Public Law 97-205, dated June 29, 1982, rewrote Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act to bar any practice "imposed or applied by any State or political subdivision in a manner which results in a denial or abridgement of the right of any citizen of the United States to vote on account of race or color." It also provided that a section 4 provision expires "at the end of the twenty-five-year period following the effective date" of the 1982 amendments.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
1980
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Supreme Court decides City of Mobile v. Bolden
On April 22, 1980, the U.S. Supreme Court reversed a lower-court ruling against Mobile, Alabama's at-large election system. Four Justices concluded that "Racially discriminatory motivation is a necessary ingredient of a Fifteenth Amendment violation." Congress amended Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act in 1982.
Source last checked Oct 23, 2026
1975
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Voting Rights Act extended in 1975, with language-minority protections
Public Law 94-73, dated August 6, 1975, is titled "To amend the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to extend certain provisions for an additional seven years, to make permanent the ban against certain prerequisites to voting, and for other purposes." It also provides that no voting qualification may be imposed "to deny or abridge the right of any citizen of the United States to vote because he is a member of a language minority group."
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
1971
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26th Amendment ratified: voting age of 18
The National Archives lists the 26th Amendment as passed by Congress on March 23, 1971, and ratified on July 1, 1971. It reads: "The right of citizens of the United States, who are eighteen years of age or older, to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of age."
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
1970
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Supreme Court decides Oregon v. Mitchell
On December 21, 1970, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled on the 1970 Voting Rights Act Amendments. The Court's syllabus says the 18-year-old minimum-age requirement is valid for national elections but not valid for state and local elections, and that the literacy test provision is valid.
Source last checked Oct 23, 2026
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Voting Rights Act Amendments of 1970 become law
Public Law 91-285, dated June 22, 1970, is titled "To extend the Voting Rights Act of 1965 with respect to the discriminatory use of tests, and for other purposes." It may be cited as the Voting Rights Act Amendments of 1970.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
1969
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Supreme Court decides Allen v. State Board of Elections
On March 3, 1969, the U.S. Supreme Court held that "Private litigants may invoke the jurisdiction of the district courts to obtain relief under § 5" of the Voting Rights Act, according to the Court's syllabus.
Source last checked Oct 23, 2026
1967
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Congress requires single-member congressional districts (Public Law 90-196)
Public Law 90-196, approved December 14, 1967, provides that in each state entitled to more than one Representative "there shall be established by law a number of districts equal to the number of Representatives to which such State is so entitled," with "no district to elect more than one Representative."
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
1966
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Supreme Court decides Harper v. Virginia Board of Elections
On March 24, 1966, the U.S. Supreme Court held that "a State's conditioning of the right to vote on the payment of a fee or tax violates the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment." The case concerned Virginia's poll tax.
Source last checked Oct 23, 2026
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Supreme Court decides South Carolina v. Katzenbach
On March 7, 1966, the U.S. Supreme Court decided South Carolina's challenge to the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The Court held that "the sections of the Act properly before this Court are a valid effectuation of the Fifteenth Amendment."
Source last checked Oct 23, 2026
1965
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Voting Rights Act of 1965 signed into law
President Lyndon Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act into law on August 6, 1965. The National Archives says the act outlawed the discriminatory voting practices adopted in many southern states after the Civil War.
Source last checked Oct 20, 2026
How this timeline is built
Every entry rests on at least one source that was opened and read, and that source states the date and the fact. Courts, legislatures, election offices, the Justice Department, the Census Bureau, the Federal Register and Congress.gov come first. A news report is used only when no official page states the fact, and it is labeled with the outlet's name. Encyclopedias are not used as sources. History starts in 1965 with the Voting Rights Act. County names come from the Census Bureau's 2024 Gazetteer. Congressional district numbers are those in use for the 2026 election; an event is tagged to a district only when its source names that congressional district.
When a later event changes an earlier one, such as a law later struck down, both entries are listed and point to each other. This page does not predict outcomes or say which party a change helps. U.S. House maps for 2026 · Back to the 2026 voting center.