DOJ can keep 2020 election ballots seized from Georgia's Fulton County, judge rules

Published: Thursday, May 7, 2026 at 12:52 am

Judge Rules DOJ Can Retain 2020 Election Ballots from Fulton County

A federal judge has ruled that the Department of Justice (DOJ) can retain 2020 election ballots and related materials seized from Fulton County, Georgia. The ruling, delivered Wednesday by U.S. District Judge J.P. Boulee, stems from a January seizure by the FBI of election materials from a warehouse. Fulton County officials had argued that the seizure was unconstitutional and requested the return of the ballots and any electronic copies held by the DOJ.

The DOJ stated it is investigating "irregularities" during the 2020 presidential election in the county, citing potential violations of laws regarding election record maintenance and the prohibition of fraudulent ballots. The county's lawyers argued the seizure was improper and demonstrated a "callous disregard" for Fourth Amendment protections.

Judge Boulee acknowledged imperfections in the seizure but determined that Fulton County failed to prove its rights were callously disregarded. He also noted the county did not demonstrate it needed the documents or would suffer irreparable harm from their retention, especially given the DOJ provided copies.

The DOJ's investigation has also involved a grand jury subpoena for the names and contact information of Fulton County election workers, which the county is seeking to quash. The DOJ has also sought election records from other states, including Arizona and Michigan, and is currently in court with numerous states over access to voter data.

The ruling comes amid concerns from Democrats that the administration is weaponizing federal law enforcement and planning interference in upcoming elections. The DOJ maintains its actions are focused on investigating past issues and protecting future elections. The county has the option to appeal the ruling.

BNN's Perspective:

This ruling highlights the ongoing tension surrounding the 2020 election and the DOJ's investigation. While the judge found flaws in the seizure process, the decision to allow the DOJ to retain the materials suggests a belief that the investigation is legitimate. The situation underscores the importance of ensuring election integrity while also protecting individual rights and due process.

Keywords: 2020 election, Fulton County, Georgia, DOJ, FBI, ballots, election materials, judge, seizure, investigation, irregularities, election fraud, Fourth Amendment, subpoena, voter data, election integrity, Joe Biden, Donald Trump

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