POLITICS

Washington Supreme Court upholds mail-ballot grace periods

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The U.S. Supreme Court has rejected a Republican-backed challenge to invalidate mail ballots that arrive after Election Day, allowing 14 states to keep counting ballots postmarked by Election Day but delivered later. The case originated in Mississippi and was supported by the Republican National Committee, raising concerns that states would need to rapidly overhaul election procedures before the 2026 midterm elections. Election officials, including Washington Secretary of State Steve Hobbs, said the ruling safeguards voters who mail ballots on time. Ohio had already changed its law anticipating the opposite outcome. Similar grace periods remain in place for many military and overseas voters.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Earlier this year, Republicans challenge postmark-based counting rules
Earlier this year, Mississippi case reaches Supreme Court docket
Earlier this year, Republican National Committee backs Mississippi lawsuit
Earlier this year, Ohio changes law anticipating restrictive ruling
Recently, Supreme Court hears arguments on mail-ballot deadlines
Today, Supreme Court rejects challenge to grace periods
Today, 14 states retain postmarked ballot counting rules
Ahead of 2026 midterms, election officials avoid major rule overhaul

Why This Matters to You

Your vote counts, even if it arrives late. This ruling ensures that ballots postmarked by Election Day are valid, even if they're delivered later. If you're in one of the 14 states with this grace period, you can mail your vote without worrying about postal delays.

The Bottom Line

This Supreme Court decision protects your right to vote by mail. It's a win for voters who can't make it to the polls on Election Day. Keep an eye on your state's voting rules ahead of the 2026 midterms. Worth forwarding if you know someone who votes by mail.