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Judge Blocks Return of Fulton County 2020 Ballots; DOJ Maintains Custody

May 7, 2026

Summary

A federal judge denied a request from Fulton County officials to force the FBI to return 2020 election ballots that were seized earlier, allowing the Justice Department to retain them.

How coverage differs

Left outlets report the judge confirmed the DOJ's authority to retain Fulton County ballots, while right outlets emphasize the DOJ's continued possession, suggesting an ongoing election review.

  • Left: Federal judge affirms DOJ's authority over seized 2020 election materials Left-leaning outlets report on the federal judge's decision to deny Fulton County officials' request, allowing the Justice Department to maintain custody of the seized 2020 election ballots. This coverage highlights the legal process confirming the DOJ's authority to retain the materials for review.
  • Right: Federal government retains 2020 ballots for ongoing election integrity review Right-leaning outlets emphasize the federal judge's ruling that permits the Justice Department to retain the 2020 election ballots seized from Georgia's Fulton County. This framing underscores the DOJ's continued possession of the materials, suggesting an ongoing review of the election.

Coverage by lane

Left

  • Judge denies request to force FBI to return seized 2020 Fulton County ballots
  • Judge won’t order DOJ to return seized 2020 ballots to Fulton County - CNN

Right

  • Justice Department can keep 2020 election ballots seized from Georgia's Fulton County, judge rules

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