The Supreme Court agreed Monday to decide whether federal law bars states from counting mail-in ballots that arrive after Election Day, taking up a challenge to Mississippi’s five-day receipt rule. A district judge upheld the law, but a Fifth Circuit panel sided with Republican plaintiffs, saying ballots must be cast and received by Election Day. Mississippi warns the ruling could disrupt similar policies in 16 states and sow confusion before the 2026 midterms, while GOP groups argue post Election Day receipts extend elections beyond the uniform date set by Congress.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.