Court Backs Justice Department in 2020 Ballot Controversy

A U.S. judge has ruled that the Justice Department can retain 2020 election ballots seized during an FBI search, aiding Trump's unfounded voter fraud claims. Despite flaws in the FBI's affidavit, the court found no 'callous disregard' of rights. The investigation continues despite significant challenges.

A U.S. judge ruled on Wednesday that the Justice Department may keep 2020 election ballots seized during an FBI search, offering a victory to President Donald Trump’s administration in its pursuit of unproven voter fraud claims.

Judge J.P. Boulee of Atlanta denied Fulton County’s request for return of the ballot copies, arguing that while there were flaws in the FBI affidavit justifying the search, these did not amount to 'callous disregard' for the county's rights, a crucial legal criterion for their return.

The decision, impacting over 600 boxes of ballots, is a rare legal triumph for Trump's Justice Department in ongoing investigations, though it faces hurdles as no individual targets have been identified and the statute of limitations may have expired. This case is watched closely as Trump threatens federal intervention in local elections before November's polls.