A new decree signed by former President Donald Trump is poised to significantly alter voter roll maintenance procedures, potentially impacting the 2026 elections. The order aims to limit access to voter information and restrict states’ ability to easily update their lists, particularly concerning mail-in ballots. Critics argue the measures will disproportionately affect legitimate voters and create unnecessary hurdles to participation. State election officials have expressed concern that the decree will hinder their efforts to maintain accurate voter rolls and could lead to increased litigation. The order focuses on restricting the use of data from federal agencies for voter registration purposes. Legal challenges to the decree are anticipated from voting rights groups and potentially from states themselves, citing federalism concerns and potential voter suppression. The full impact of the changes remains to be seen, but it is expected to be a major point of contention leading up to the 2026 midterm elections.