Election officials across the United States are expressing concern that President Donald Trump's executive order on mail voting could create significant administrative and logistical difficulties ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.The order directs the U.S.

Postal Service to withhold delivery of election ballots from states that do not comply with new federal requirements, including providing voter lists and meeting specific ballot-processing standards.A proposed Postal Service rule published in June would implement these requirements.

According to election administrators, the changes would require states and local jurisdictions to quickly develop new systems for sharing voter information, updating records, and resolving errors.

Officials argue that the order effectively introduces the first federal-level voter list and centralizes processes that have traditionally been managed by individual states.

They warn that creating a national portal for voter data could introduce technical vulnerabilities, data-formatting challenges, and a potential single point of failure in election administration.

Local officials, particularly those in smaller and rural counties, say compliance could be difficult because many election offices operate with limited staff, outdated technology, and restricted budgets.

The proposed requirements for ballot envelopes, including tracking barcodes and standardized mailing features, may require resources that some jurisdictions currently lack.No additional federal funding has been proposed to support implementation.

Supporters of the executive order, including several Republican state attorneys general, argue that the measures will strengthen election security and help prevent noncitizen voting.

Critics, including Democratic officials, election experts, and voting-rights organizations, contend that the order exceeds federal authority because election administration is primarily a state responsibility under the Constitution.Multiple legal challenges are ongoing, and federal courts are still considering whether the order should be blocked before the midterm elections.