Case: United States v. Thomas

3:26-cv-00021 | U.S. District Court for the District of Connecticut

Filed Date: Jan. 6, 2026

Case Ongoing

Clearinghouse coding complete

Case Summary

This case involved a suit filed by the Attorney General of the United States against the Secretary of State for the State of Connecticut seeking to compel Connecticut’s statewide voter registration list, which includes sensitive personal information. Here are all of the DOJ Voter Data lawsuits in the Clearinghouse collection. The U.S. Attorney General, on behalf of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), claimed authority to compel the statewide voter registration list under the National Voter Re…

This case involved a suit filed by the Attorney General of the United States against the Secretary of State for the State of Connecticut seeking to compel Connecticut’s statewide voter registration list, which includes sensitive personal information. Here are all of the DOJ Voter Data lawsuits in the Clearinghouse collection.

The U.S. Attorney General, on behalf of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), claimed authority to compel the statewide voter registration list under the National Voter Registration Act (NVRA), the Help America Vote Act (HAVA), and the Civil Rights Act of 1960 (CRA). Both the NVRA and HAVA require States to maintain and preserve certain records and papers relating to elections that fall within the scope of Section 301 of Title III of the CRA. Section 301 of the CRA requires state election officials to “retain and preserve … all records and papers which come into [their] possession relating to any application, registration, payment of poll tax, or other act requisite to voting in such election.” Section 303 of the CRA provides that such records “shall, upon demand in writing by the Attorney General … be made available for inspection, reproduction, and copying at the principal office of such custodian by the Attorney General or his representative….” 

Based on this authority, the DOJ sent a letter to the Secretary of State of Connecticut, Stephanie Thomas, on August 6 and December 12, 2025, seeking information regarding Connecticut’s compliance with federal election law, including the state’s voter registration list and accompanying information on each registered voter: full name, date of birth, residential address, state driver’s license number, and the last four digits of the registrant’s social security number. When Secretary Thomas declined to provide the information, citing Connecticut privacy law, the DOJ brought suit against Secretary Thomas in the U.S. District Court for the District of Connecticut on January 6, 2026. The case was assigned to Judge Kari Anne Dooley.

In the complaint, the DOJ alleged that the CRA granted “sweeping power to obtain [the requested records.” Further, DOJ argued that if the custodian to whom the written demand is made refuses to comply, the CRA allows the DOJ to “request a Federal court to issue an order directing the officer of election to produce the demanded records.” Relying on Kennedy v. Lynd, 306 F.2d 222, 226 (5th Cir. 1962) and In re Gordon, 218 F. Supp. 826, 826-27 (S.D. Miss. 1963), the DOJ further argued that the reviewing court does not adjudicate “the factual foundation for, or the sufficiency of, the Attorney General’s ‘statement of the basis and the purpose’ contained in the written demand” or “the scope of the order to produce.”

In relief, the DOJ sought a declaration that Secretary Thomas’s refusal violated Title III of the CRA, and an order compelling Secretary Thomas to provide Connecticut;s statewide voter registration list, “with all fields.” On January 7, 2026, the DOJ also filed a motion to compel the aforementioned records.

On January 8, 2026, the court ordered Secretary Thomas to show cause as to “why, pursuant to 52 U.S.C. § 20701, the Defendant should not be ordered to provide the SVRL to the Attorney General, as well as the ‘other documents demanded by the Attorney General to ascertain Defendant’s compliance with federal law,’ to wit, the NVRA and HAVA.” After Secretary Thomas requested an extension, the court set the deadline to show cause on February 27, 2026, and ordered a hearing on the matter on March 19, 2026. 

Judge Dooley noted in her order that the parties “disagree as to the appropriate procedural posture of this case,” but it is the court’s view that “the [Civil Rights Act of 1960] gives the district court jurisdiction to receive and adjudicate applications by the Attorney General seeking to enforce the disclosure obligations provided for therein.” Further, “it is the Court's expectation that the dispute shall be fully briefed followed by a hearing at which oral argument shall be had. Thereafter, the Court will decide the issues presented as may be necessary to a resolution of this matter.”

The Connecticut Alliance for Retired Americans, Connecticut Citizen Action Group, and an individual Connecticut voter moved the court to intervene as defendants to “prevent their and their members’ sensitive personal information on Connecticut’s statewide voter list from being handed over to the federal government.” Common Cause, a non-partisan organization dedicated to grassroots voter engagement in Connecticut, and individual Connecticut voters also filed a motion to intervene. Both motions were granted by the court on January 13 and January 29, 2026, respectively. 

The case is ongoing.

Summary Authors

Madena Mustafa (2/12/2026)

People

For PACER's information on parties and their attorneys, see: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/72110170/parties/united-states-v-thomas/


Judge(s)

Dooley, Kari Anne (Connecticut)

Attorney for Plaintiff

Bennett, Brittany (Connecticut)

Attorney for Defendant

Barrett, Dan (Connecticut)

Blickley, Jaclyn Marie (Connecticut)

Bloss, William M. (Connecticut)

Documents in the Clearinghouse

Documents in this case
1

3:26-cv-00021

Complaint

The United States of America v. Thomas

Jan. 6, 2026

Jan. 6, 2026

Complaint

Docket

See docket on RECAP: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/72110170/united-states-v-thomas/

Last updated April 20, 2026, 3:19 a.m.

ECF Number Date Description Link
1 Jan. 6, 2026

COMPLAINT against Stephanie Thomas, filed by USA. (Attachments: # 1 Supplement Civil Cover Sheet, # 2 Supplement Attachment to Civil Cover Sheet, # 3 Supplement Summons)(Bennett, Brittany) Modified on 1/6/2026 to correct party name (Hushin, Z.). (Entered: 01/06/2026)

1 Supplement Civil Cover Sheet

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2 Supplement Attachment to Civil Cover Sheet

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3 Supplement Summons

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Clearinghouse
2 Jan. 6, 2026

Notice: Pursuant to Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 7.1(b), a disclosure statement required under Rule 7.1(a) must be filed with a party's first appearance, pleading, petition, motion, response, or other request addressed to the Court and must be supplemented if any required information changes during the case. Signed by Clerk on 1/6/26.(Hushin, Z.) (Entered: 01/06/2026)

RECAP
3 Jan. 6, 2026

Order on Pretrial Deadlines: Amended Pleadings due by 3/7/2026 Discovery due by 7/8/2026 Dispositive Motions due by 8/12/2026 Signed by Clerk on 1/6/2026.(Freberg, B) (Entered: 01/07/2026)

RECAP
4 Jan. 6, 2026

ELECTRONIC FILING ORDER FOR COUNSEL - PLEASE ENSURE COMPLIANCE WITH COURTESY COPY REQUIREMENTS IN THIS ORDER Signed by Judge Kari A. Dooley on 1/6/2026.(Freberg, B) (Entered: 01/07/2026)

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5 Jan. 6, 2026

Standing Protective Order Signed by Judge Kari A. Dooley on 1/6/2026.(Freberg, B) (Entered: 01/07/2026)

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6 Jan. 6, 2026

Notice of Option to Consent to Magistrate Judge Jurisdiction.(Freberg, B) (Entered: 01/07/2026)

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7 Jan. 6, 2026

Notice to Counsel and Litigants Regarding AI-Assisted Research: Attorneys and pro se litigants alike should exercise great caution in submitting any AI-generated language in filings before the Court. Use of AI without verification of the accuracy of the information it generates like any other shoddy research method from other sources or tools implicates Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 11, the central purpose of which is to deter baseless filings in district court and thus to streamline the administration and procedure of the federal courts. Rule 11 applies fully to actions filed by pro se litigants.Therefore, all parties are on notice that the Court has a no-tolerance policy for any briefing (AI-assisted or not) that hallucinates legal propositions or otherwise severely misstates the law. Such filings will often result in sanctions absent reasonable excuse. See generally Willis v. U.S. Bank Nat'l Ass'n et al, No. 3:25-CV-516-BN, 2025 WL 1408897 (N.D. Tex. May 15, 2025). Signed by Clerk on 1/6/2026.(Freberg, B) (Entered: 01/07/2026)

RECAP
Jan. 6, 2026

NEW Case Assignment

Jan. 6, 2026

Request to Issue Summons

Jan. 6, 2026

Notice re: Disclosure Statement

Jan. 6, 2026

Case Assignment

Jan. 6, 2026

Request for Clerk to issue summons as to Stephanie Thomas. (Hushin, Z.)

Jan. 6, 2026

CASE ASSIGNMENT: District Judge Kari A. Dooley assigned to the case. If the District Judge issues an Order of Referral to a Magistrate Judge for any matter other than settlement, the matter will be referred to Magistrate Judge Thomas O. Farrish. (Oliver, T.)

8 Jan. 7, 2026

ELECTRONIC SUMMONS ISSUED in accordance with Fed. R. Civ. P. 4 and LR 4 as to *Stephanie Thomas* with answer to complaint due within *21* days. Attorney *Brittany Bennett* *DOJ-crt* *950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW* *Washington, D.C. 20579*. (Freberg, B) (Entered: 01/07/2026)

RECAP
9 Jan. 7, 2026

MOTION to Compel Production of Records pursuant to the Civil Rights Act of 1960 by USA.Responses due by 1/28/2026 (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum in Support, # 2 Exhibit Letter to SOS, # 3 Exhibit Response Letter from SOS, # 4 Exhibit Letter to SOS, # 5 Exhibit Response Letter from SOS, # 6 Supplement Declaration of Eric Neff, # 7 Exhibit South Carolina Order, # 8 Text of Proposed Order)(Bennett, Brittany) (Entered: 01/07/2026)

RECAP
Jan. 7, 2026

Notice re: AI-Assisted Research

10 Jan. 8, 2026

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. See attached. A Show Cause Hearing is set for January 29, 2026 at 10:00 AM in Courtroom Two, 915 Lafayette Blvd., Bridgeport, CT before Judge Kari A. Dooley. Show Cause Response due by 1/20/2026. Signed by Judge Kari A. Dooley on January 8, 2026. (Spears, A.) (Entered: 01/08/2026)

RECAP
11 Jan. 9, 2026

NOTICE of Appearance by William M. Bloss on behalf of Seiu District 1199NE, Connecticut Alliance for Retired Americans, Connecticut Citizen Action Group, Bette Marafino (Bloss, William) (Entered: 01/09/2026)

RECAP
12 Jan. 9, 2026

MOTION to Intervene by Connecticut Alliance for Retired Americans, Connecticut Citizen Action Group, Bette Marafino, Seiu District 1199NE.Responses due by 1/30/2026 (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum in Support, # 2 Exhibit A, # 3 Exhibit B, # 4 Exhibit C, # 5 Exhibit D)(Bloss, William) (Entered: 01/09/2026)

RECAP
13 Jan. 9, 2026

Disclosure Statement by Seiu District 1199NE. (Bloss, William) (Entered: 01/09/2026)

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14 Jan. 9, 2026

Disclosure Statement 7.1 by Connecticut Alliance for Retired Americans. (Bloss, William) (Entered: 01/09/2026)

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15 Jan. 9, 2026

Disclosure Statement 7.1 by Connecticut Citizen Action Group. (Bloss, William) (Entered: 01/09/2026)

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16 Jan. 9, 2026

ORDER: On January 9, 2026, Proposed Intervenors Seiu District 1199NE, Connecticut Alliance for Retired Americans, Connecticut Citizen Action Group, and Bette Marafino collectively filed a Motion to Intervene in this matter, pursuant to Rule 24 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. Plaintiff is directed to file a response to the 12 Motion to Intervene on or before January 16, 2026. Signed by Judge Kari A. Dooley on January 9, 2026. (Spears, A.) (Entered: 01/09/2026)

RECAP
Jan. 9, 2026

Order

17 Jan. 12, 2026

MOTION for Attorney(s) David R. Fox to be Admitted Pro Hac Vice (paid $200 PHV fee; receipt number ACTDC-8461751) by Connecticut Alliance for Retired Americans, Connecticut Citizen Action Group, Bette Marafino, Seiu District 1199NE. (Attachments: # 1 Affidavit)(Bloss, William) (Entered: 01/12/2026)

RECAP
18 Jan. 12, 2026

MOTION for Attorney(s) Tori A. Shaw to be Admitted Pro Hac Vice (paid $200 PHV fee; receipt number ACTDC-8461832) by Connecticut Alliance for Retired Americans, Connecticut Citizen Action Group, Bette Marafino, Seiu District 1199NE. (Attachments: # 1 Affidavit)(Bloss, William) (Entered: 01/12/2026)

RECAP
19 Jan. 12, 2026

MOTION for Attorney(s) Marisa A. O'Gara to be Admitted Pro Hac Vice (paid $200 PHV fee; receipt number ACTDC-8461842) by Connecticut Alliance for Retired Americans, Connecticut Citizen Action Group, Bette Marafino, Seiu District 1199NE. (Attachments: # 1 Affidavit)(Bloss, William) (Entered: 01/12/2026)

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20 Jan. 12, 2026

SUMMONS Returned Executed by USA. Stephanie Thomas served on 1/12/2026, answer due 2/2/2026. (Bennett, Brittany) (Entered: 01/12/2026)

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21 Jan. 12, 2026

SUMMONS Returned Executed by USA. (Bennett, Brittany) (Entered: 01/12/2026)

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22 Jan. 12, 2026

RESPONSE re 12 MOTION to Intervene, 16 Order, filed by USA. (Bennett, Brittany) (Entered: 01/12/2026)

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23 Jan. 13, 2026

ORDER granting 12 Motion to Intervene. Plaintiff having advised the Court that it takes no position thereon, see ECF No. 22, the 12 Motion to Intervene is hereby GRANTED absent objection. Intervenors shall join in the briefing schedule set forth in the Court's 10 Order to Show Cause and file an opposition to the 9 Motion to Compel on or before January 20, 2026. It is so ordered. Signed by Judge Kari A. Dooley on January 13, 2026. (Spears, A.) (Entered: 01/13/2026)

RECAP
24 Jan. 13, 2026

ORDER granting 17 Motion to Appear Pro Hac Vice for Attorney David R. Fox ; granting 18 Motion to Appear Pro Hac Vice for Attorney Tori A. Shaw ; granting 19 Motion to Appear Pro Hac Vice for Attorney Marisa A. O'Gara. Signed by Clerk on 1/13/2026. (Fanelle, N.) (Entered: 01/13/2026)

RECAP
25 Jan. 13, 2026

NOTICE of Appearance by Michael Rondon on behalf of Stephanie Thomas (Rondon, Michael) (Entered: 01/13/2026)

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26 Jan. 13, 2026

NOTICE of Appearance by Blake Thomas Sullivan on behalf of Stephanie Thomas (Sullivan, Blake) (Entered: 01/13/2026)

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27 Jan. 13, 2026

MOTION for Extension of Time until February 27, 2026 to Respond to the Complaint and the Court's Order to Show Cause (ECF No. 1, 10) by Stephanie Thomas. (Rondon, Michael) (Entered: 01/13/2026)

RECAP
Jan. 13, 2026

Order on Motion to Intervene

Jan. 13, 2026

Order on Motion for Admission Pro Hac Vice AND Order on Motion for Admission Pro Hac Vice AND Order on Motion for Admission Pro Hac Vice

28 Jan. 14, 2026

NOTICE of Appearance by David Robert Fox on behalf of Connecticut Alliance for Retired Americans, Connecticut Citizen Action Group, Bette Marafino, Seiu District 1199NE (Fox, David) (Entered: 01/14/2026)

RECAP
29 Jan. 14, 2026

NOTICE of Appearance by Marisa O'Gara on behalf of Connecticut Alliance for Retired Americans, Connecticut Citizen Action Group, Bette Marafino, Seiu District 1199NE (O'Gara, Marisa) (Entered: 01/14/2026)

RECAP
30 Jan. 14, 2026

ORDER granting 27 Motion for Extension of Time. Defendant seeks an extension of time to respond to the 1 Complaint and the Court's 10 Order to Show Cause. Defendant's request is GRANTED over Plaintiff's objection, the Court finding de minimis prejudice to Plaintiff and good cause having been demonstrated by Defendant. Defendant shall respond to the Complaint and the Order to Show Cause on or before February 27, 2026. The same briefing schedule shall apply to the Intervenor-Defendants. Plaintiff shall file any reply brief(s) on or before March 13, 2026. Though Defendant has not specifically sought to continue the Show Cause hearing presently set for January 29, 2026, see ECF No. 10, the Court sua sponte adjourns such hearing to March 19, 2026 at 10:00 AM. A separate calendar shall enter.The Court further observes that, based upon the limited filings to date, it appears to the Court that the parties disagree as to the appropriate procedural posture of this case. Although Plaintiff commenced this matter with the filing of a Complaint, it is unclear to the undersigned why a Complaint was filed at all. Whether the Court ultimately accepts the scope and limitations of the Voting Rights Act as set forth in Kennedy v. Lynd, 306 F.2d 222(5th Cir. 1962), it is this Court's view that the Voting Rights Act gives the district court jurisdiction to receive and adjudicate applications by the Attorney General seeking to enforce the disclosure obligations provided for therein. The Voting Rights Act is akin, for example, to 28 U.S.C Section 1782, which authorizes the district court to adjudicate disputes over discovery sought in aid of foreign and international tribunals. Whether this case is ultimately adjudicated in connection with the 1 Complaint or the 9 Motion to Compel, it is the Court's expectation that the dispute shall be fully briefed followed by a hearing at which oral argument shall be had. Thereafter, the Court will decide the issues presented as may be necessary to a resolution of this matter. If the parties are of a different view as to the procedural path forward in this litigation, they shall include such positions in their briefing. It is so ordered. Signed by Judge Kari A. Dooley on January 14, 2026. (Spears, A.) (Entered: 01/14/2026)

RECAP
31 Jan. 14, 2026

NOTICE OF E-FILED CALENDAR: THIS IS THE ONLY NOTICE COUNSEL/THE PARTIES WILL RECEIVE. ALL PERSONS ENTERING THE COURTHOUSE MUST PRESENT PHOTO IDENTIFICATION. RESET FROM January 29, 2026. The Show Cause Hearing previously set for January 29, 2026, see ECF No. 10, is hereby RESET for March 19, 2026 at 10:00 AM in Courtroom Two, 915 Lafayette Blvd., Bridgeport, CT before Judge Kari A. Dooley. (Spears, A.) (Entered: 01/14/2026)

RECAP
32 Jan. 14, 2026

NOTICE of Appearance by Tori Shaw on behalf of Connecticut Alliance for Retired Americans, Connecticut Citizen Action Group, Bette Marafino, Seiu District 1199NE (Shaw, Tori) (Entered: 01/14/2026)

RECAP
Jan. 14, 2026

Calendar Entry

Jan. 14, 2026

Order on Motion for Extension of Time

33 Jan. 15, 2026

NOTICE amending 30 ORDER: It has come to the Court's attention that the Order at ECF No. 30 incorrectly references the "Voting Rights Act" as providing the Court with jurisdiction to adjudicate the application made by the Attorney General in this case. See ECF No. 30. However, the Complaint and the Motion to Compel each invoke Title III of the Civil Rights Act of 1960, 52 U.S.C. Section 20701, et seq., not the Voting Rights Act of 1965. See ECF Nos. 1, 9. With apologies, ECF No. 30 is hereby amended to reflect the Court's understanding that Plaintiff has invoked the Civil Rights Act of 1960, not the Voting Rights Act as erroneously indicated. Signed by Judge Kari A. Dooley on January 15, 2026. (Spears, A.) (Entered: 01/15/2026)

RECAP
Jan. 15, 2026

Notice

34 Jan. 27, 2026

NOTICE of Appearance by Joseph Purpura Gaylin on behalf of Claire Ewing, Common Cause (Gaylin, Joseph) (Entered: 01/27/2026)

RECAP
35 Jan. 27, 2026

MOTION to Intervene by Common Cause, Claire Ewing.Responses due by 2/17/2026 (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit 1, # 2 Exhibit 2, # 3 Exhibit 3, # 4 Exhibit 4)(Gaylin, Joseph) (Entered: 01/27/2026)

1 Exhibit 1

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2 Exhibit 2

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3 Exhibit 3

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4 Exhibit 4

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RECAP
36 Jan. 27, 2026

Disclosure Statement 7.1 by Common Cause. (Gaylin, Joseph) (Entered: 01/27/2026)

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37 Jan. 28, 2026

NOTICE of Appearance by Dan Barrett on behalf of Common Cause, Claire Ewing (Barrett, Dan) (Entered: 01/28/2026)

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38 Jan. 28, 2026

NOTICE of Appearance by Joseph Purpura Gaylin on behalf of Common Cause, Claire Ewing AMENDED (Gaylin, Joseph) (Entered: 01/28/2026)

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39 Jan. 28, 2026

NOTICE of Appearance by Jaclyn Marie Blickley on behalf of Common Cause, Claire Ewing (Blickley, Jaclyn) (Entered: 01/28/2026)

RECAP
40 Jan. 29, 2026

ORDER granting 35 Motion to Intervene. Plaintiff having not opposed intervention, see ECF No. 35 at 7 n.1, the 35 Motion to Intervene is hereby GRANTED absent objection. Intervenors Claire Ewing and Common Cause shall join in the briefing schedule set forth at ECF No. 30. It is so ordered. Signed by Judge Kari A. Dooley on January 29, 2026. (Spears, A.) (Entered: 01/29/2026)

RECAP
Jan. 29, 2026

Order on Motion to Intervene

41 Jan. 30, 2026

MOTION for Attorney(s) William Hughes, Theresa J. Lee, Sophia Lin Lakin, Patricia Yan to be Admitted Pro Hac Vice (paid $800 PHV fee; receipt number ACTDC-8484717) by Common Cause, Claire Ewing. (Attachments: # 1 Affidavit William Hughes, # 2 Affidavit Theresa J. Lee, # 3 Affidavit Sophia Lin Lakin, # 4 Affidavit Patricia Yan)(Gaylin, Joseph) (Entered: 01/30/2026)

1 Affidavit William Hughes

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2 Affidavit Theresa J. Lee

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3 Affidavit Sophia Lin Lakin

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4 Affidavit Patricia Yan

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RECAP
42 Feb. 2, 2026

ORDER granting 41 Motion to Appear Pro Hac Vice for Attorneys William Hughes, Theresa J. Lee, Sophia Lin Lakin, Patricia Yan. Certificates of Good Standing due by 4/3/2026. Signed by Clerk on 2/2/2026. (Fanelle, N.) (Entered: 02/02/2026)

RECAP
Feb. 2, 2026

Order on Motion for Admission Pro Hac Vice

43 Feb. 5, 2026

NOTICE of Appearance by Theresa J. Lee on behalf of Common Cause, Claire Ewing (Lee, Theresa) (Entered: 02/05/2026)

RECAP
44 Feb. 5, 2026

CERTIFICATE OF GOOD STANDING re 41 MOTION for Attorney(s) William Hughes, Theresa J. Lee, Sophia Lin Lakin, Patricia Yan to be Admitted Pro Hac Vice (paid $800 PHV fee; receipt number ACTDC-8484717) by Common Cause, Claire Ewing. (Lee, Theresa) (Entered: 02/05/2026)

RECAP
45 Feb. 6, 2026

MOTION for Marisa A. O'Gara to Withdraw as Attorney by Connecticut Alliance for Retired Americans, Connecticut Citizen Action Group, Bette Marafino, Seiu District 1199NE. (Bloss, William) (Entered: 02/06/2026)

RECAP
46 Feb. 9, 2026

ORDER granting 45 Motion to Withdraw as Attorney, for the reasons identified therein. Attorney Marisa O'Gara terminated. The Court observes that Local Rule 7(e) generally contemplates that the attorney seeking to withdraw files the motion on his or her own behalf. Signed by Judge Kari A. Dooley on February 9, 2026. (Spears, A.) (Entered: 02/09/2026)

RECAP
Feb. 9, 2026

Order on Motion to Withdraw as Attorney

47 Feb. 13, 2026

MOTION to Intervene by John Flynn. (Pesta, J.) (Entered: 02/13/2026)

RECAP
48 Feb. 13, 2026

ORDER denying 47 Motion to Intervene. Movant Flynn seeks to intervene in this civil action, in which the Department of Justice has sought to compel Connecticut's Secretary of State to turn over the State's complete and unredacted voter registration list. Movant Flynn's basis for seeking such relief is entirely unclear, as is Flynn's interest in the outcome of this case. Moreover, the Motion to Intervene plainly fails to meet--or even address--the applicable standards for either intervention as of right or permissive intervention under Rule 24 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. See In re New York City Policing During Summer 2020 Demonstrations, 27 F.4th 792, 799 (2d Cir. 2022) ("To prevail on a motion for intervention as of right, a movant must '(1) timely file an application, (2) show an interest in the action, (3) demonstrate that the interest may be impaired by the disposition of the action, and (4) show that the interest is not protected adequately by the parties to the action.'") (quotations omitted); New York v. Nat'l Sci. Found., No. 25-CV-4452 (JPC), 2025 WL 1793858, at *5 (S.D.N.Y. June 30, 2025) (regarding permissive intervention, "[o]n timely motion, the court may permit anyone to intervene who... has a claim or defense that shares with the main action a common question of law or fact.") (quoting Fed. R. Civ. P. 24(b)(1)(B)). Accordingly, the Motion to Intervene is DENIED. The Clerk of Court is directed to terminate Movant Flynn from the docket. Signed by Judge Kari A. Dooley on February 13, 2026. (Spears, A.) (Entered: 02/13/2026)

RECAP
Feb. 13, 2026

Order on Motion to Intervene

49 Feb. 20, 2026

NOTICE of Appearance by Sophia Lin Lakin on behalf of Common Cause, Claire Ewing (Lakin, Sophia) (Entered: 02/20/2026)

RECAP
50 Feb. 20, 2026

CERTIFICATE OF GOOD STANDING re 41 MOTION for Attorney(s) William Hughes, Theresa J. Lee, Sophia Lin Lakin, Patricia Yan to be Admitted Pro Hac Vice (paid $800 PHV fee; receipt number ACTDC-8484717) by Common Cause, Claire Ewing. (Lakin, Sophia) (Entered: 02/20/2026)

RECAP
51 Feb. 20, 2026

NOTICE of Appearance by Patricia Jia Yan on behalf of Common Cause, Claire Ewing (Yan, Patricia) (Entered: 02/20/2026)

RECAP
52 Feb. 20, 2026

CERTIFICATE OF GOOD STANDING re 41 MOTION for Attorney(s) William Hughes, Theresa J. Lee, Sophia Lin Lakin, Patricia Yan to be Admitted Pro Hac Vice (paid $800 PHV fee; receipt number ACTDC-8484717) by Common Cause, Claire Ewing. (Yan, Patricia) (Entered: 02/20/2026)

RECAP
53 Feb. 20, 2026

NOTICE of Appearance by William Hughes on behalf of Common Cause, Claire Ewing (Hughes, William) (Entered: 02/20/2026)

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54 Feb. 20, 2026

CERTIFICATE OF GOOD STANDING re 41 MOTION for Attorney(s) William Hughes, Theresa J. Lee, Sophia Lin Lakin, Patricia Yan to be Admitted Pro Hac Vice (paid $800 PHV fee; receipt number ACTDC-8484717) by Common Cause, Claire Ewing. (Hughes, William) (Entered: 02/20/2026)

RECAP
55 Feb. 27, 2026

MOTION for Attorney(s) Joshua C. Abbuhl to be Admitted Pro Hac Vice (paid $200 PHV fee; receipt number ACTDC-8517150) by Connecticut Alliance for Retired Americans, Connecticut Citizen Action Group, Bette Marafino, Seiu District 1199NE. (Attachments: # 1 Certificate of Good Standing)(Bloss, William) (Entered: 02/27/2026)

RECAP
56 Feb. 27, 2026

MOTION to Dismiss by Connecticut Alliance for Retired Americans, Connecticut Citizen Action Group, Bette Marafino, Seiu District 1199NE.Responses due by 3/20/2026 (Bloss, William) (Entered: 02/27/2026)

RECAP
57 Feb. 27, 2026

Memorandum in Support re 9 MOTION to Compel Production of Records pursuant to the Civil Rights Act of 1960, 56 MOTION to Dismiss filed by Connecticut Alliance for Retired Americans, Connecticut Citizen Action Group, Bette Marafino, Seiu District 1199NE. (Bloss, William) (Entered: 02/27/2026)

RECAP
58 Feb. 27, 2026

MOTION to Dismiss of Defendant Secretary Thomas by Stephanie Thomas.Responses due by 3/20/2026 (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum in Support of Motion to Dismiss, # 2 Affidavit of Chief of Staff & General Counsel in the Secretary of the State Gabe Rosenberg, # 3 Exhibit A, # 4 Exhibit B, # 5 Exhibit C)(Rondon, Michael) (Entered: 02/27/2026)

1 Memorandum in Support of Motion to Dismiss

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2 Affidavit of Chief of Staff & General Counsel in the Secretary of the State Gabe

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3 Exhibit A

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4 Exhibit B

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5 Exhibit C

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59 Feb. 27, 2026

RESPONSE TO 10 Order to Show Cause, by Stephanie Thomas filed by Stephanie Thomas. (Rondon, Michael) (Entered: 02/27/2026)

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60 Feb. 27, 2026

MOTION to Dismiss by Common Cause, Claire Ewing.Responses due by 3/20/2026 (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit Ex. 1 - MOU)(Hughes, William) (Entered: 02/27/2026)

1 Exhibit Ex. 1 - MOU

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RECAP
61 March 2, 2026

ORDER granting 55 Motion to Appear Pro Hac Vice for Attorney Joshua C. Abbuhl. Signed by Clerk on 3/2/26. (Limberti, L) (Entered: 03/02/2026)

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62 March 2, 2026

NOTICE of Appearance by Joseph W. Voiland on behalf of USA (Voiland, Joseph) (Entered: 03/02/2026)

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63 March 2, 2026

First MOTION for Leave to File To Appear Pro Hac Vice by Democratic National Committee. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit Bar Admissions, # 2 Exhibit Certificate of Good Standing)(Reynolds, Kevin) (Entered: 03/02/2026)

1 Exhibit Bar Admissions

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2 Exhibit Certificate of Good Standing

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64 March 2, 2026

MOTION for Attorney(s) Daniel Freeman to be Admitted Pro Hac Vice (paid $200 PHV fee; receipt number ACTDC-8520117) by Democratic National Committee. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit Bar Admissions, # 2 Exhibit Certificate of Good Standing)(Reynolds, Kevin) (Entered: 03/02/2026)

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65 March 2, 2026

Final MOTION for Leave to File Amica Brief by Democratic National Committee. (Reynolds, Kevin) (Entered: 03/02/2026)

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66 March 2, 2026

First Memorandum in Support re 65 Final MOTION for Leave to File Amica Brief Amicus Brief filed by Democratic National Committee. (Reynolds, Kevin) (Entered: 03/02/2026)

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March 2, 2026

Order on Motion for Admission Pro Hac Vice

67 March 3, 2026

ORDER granting 65 Motion for Leave to File. Absent objection, the Democratic National Committee's Motion for Leave to File an Amicus Brief is GRANTED. Signed by Judge Kari A. Dooley on March 3, 2026. (Spears, A.) (Entered: 03/03/2026)

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March 3, 2026

Order on Motion for Leave to File

March 3, 2026

ORDER granting 64 Motion to Appear Pro Hac Vice for Attorney Daniel J. Freeman.. Signed by Clerk on 3/3/26. (Limberti, L)

March 3, 2026

Order on Motion for Admission Pro Hac Vice

68 March 4, 2026

NOTICE of Appearance by Joshua Charles Abbuhl on behalf of Connecticut Alliance for Retired Americans, Connecticut Citizen Action Group, Bette Marafino, Seiu District 1199NE (Abbuhl, Joshua) (Entered: 03/04/2026)

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69 March 4, 2026

NOTICE by Stephanie Thomas re 58 MOTION to Dismiss of Defendant Secretary Thomas Notice of Filing of New Exhibit C to the Affidavit of Gabe Rosenberg, ECF 58-5 (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit C (New))(Rondon, Michael) (Entered: 03/04/2026)

1 Exhibit C (New)

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70 March 5, 2026

ORDER finding as moot 63 Motion for Leave to File, in light of the Court's Order granting the 64 Motion to Appear Pro Hac Vice. Signed by Judge Kari A. Dooley on March 5, 2026. (Spears, A.) (Entered: 03/05/2026)

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March 5, 2026

Order on Motion for Leave to File

71 March 6, 2026

MOTION for Leave to File Brief Of Amici Curiae by Former Employees Of The U.S. Department Of Justice. (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum in Support Unopposed Brief Of Amici Curiae Former Employees Of The U.S. Department Of Justice)(Godesky, Leah) (Entered: 03/06/2026)

1 Memorandum in Support Unopposed Brief Of Amici Curiae Former Employees Of The U.

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72 March 6, 2026

ORDER granting 71 Motion for Leave to File. Absent objection, the Former Employees Of The U.S. Department Of Justice's Motion for Leave to File an Amicus Brief is GRANTED. Signed by Judge Kari A. Dooley on March 6, 2026. (Spears, A.) (Entered: 03/06/2026)

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March 6, 2026

Order on Motion for Leave to File

73 March 10, 2026

MOTION for Leave to File Amici Curiae Brief by Brennan Center for Justice and Campaign Legal Center. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit 1 - Proposed Amici Curiae Brief in Support of Defendant's Motion to Dismiss)(Freiman, Jonathan) (Entered: 03/10/2026)

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74 March 10, 2026

NOTICE of Appearance by Armando Ghinaglia on behalf of Brennan Center for Justice and Campaign Legal Center (Ghinaglia, Armando) (Entered: 03/10/2026)

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75 March 11, 2026

NOTICE of Appearance by Elizabeth Pearl Lewis on behalf of Stephanie Thomas (Lewis, Elizabeth) (Entered: 03/11/2026)

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76 March 13, 2026

Memorandum in Opposition re 60 MOTION to Dismiss, 56 MOTION to Dismiss, 58 MOTION to Dismiss of Defendant Secretary Thomas filed by USA. (Attachments: # 1 2d Declaration of Eric Neff, # 2 Exhibit 6 Texas MOU, # 3 Exhibit 7 GA 2006 Complaint, # 4 Exhibit 8 GA Consent Decree, # 5 Exhibit 9 NC Consent Decree, # 6 Exhibit 10 NC Hava Report, # 7 Exhibit 11 Ford-Carter Report)(Voiland, Joseph) (Entered: 03/13/2026)

1 2d Declaration of Eric Neff

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2 Exhibit 6 Texas MOU

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3 Exhibit 7 GA 2006 Complaint

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4 Exhibit 8 GA Consent Decree

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5 Exhibit 9 NC Consent Decree

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6 Exhibit 10 NC Hava Report

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7 Exhibit 11 Ford-Carter Report

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77 March 16, 2026

ORDER granting 73 Motion for Leave to File. Absent objection, the Brennan Center for Justice and Campaign Legal Center's Motion for Leave to File an Amicus Brief is GRANTED. Signed by Judge Kari A. Dooley on March 16, 2026. (Spears, A.) (Entered: 03/16/2026)

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Case Details

State / Territory:

Connecticut

Case Type(s):

Election/Voting Rights

Special Collection(s):

Trump Administration 2.0: Litigation and Investigations By the Government

Key Dates

Filing Date: Jan. 6, 2026

Case Ongoing: Yes

Plaintiffs

Plaintiff Description:

The United States

Plaintiff Type(s):

U.S. Dept of Justice plaintiff

Public Interest Lawyer: No

Filed Pro Se: No

Class Action Sought: No

Class Action Outcome: Not sought

Defendants

State

Secretary of State for the State of Connecticut

Defendant Type(s):

Jurisdiction-wide

Case Details

Other Dockets:

District of Connecticut 3:26-cv-00021

Available Documents:

Complaint (any)

Trial Court Docket

Outcome

Prevailing Party: None Yet / None

Relief Sought:

Document/Information

Declaratory judgment

Relief Granted:

None yet

Source of Relief:

None yet

Issues

Voting:

Access to Voter Rolls / Voter Information

Recommended Citation