Mail-in Voting and USPS Restrictions: Key Facts for the Midterm Elections
An election worker processes mail-in ballots in Industry, California, highlighting the ongoing efforts to manage mail-in voting. Recently, the Trump administration requested the Supreme Court to remove a block on a plan involving the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). This plan aimed to restrict mail-in voting during the midterm elections. Currently, key aspects of the plan face a temporary restraining order from a federal judge in Boston.
What is the Current State of Mail-in Voting?
The USPS plan, as it stands, has not altered mail-in voting for the midterms. The court order prevents implementing requirements that would have directly changed procedures. Eligible voters in states can still vote by mail, with USPS expected to handle ballots as usual.
Potential Changes Under the USPS Plan
If the plan were implemented, state election officials would need to provide USPS with lists of mail-in voters’ names and addresses. Additionally, specific barcodes on mail ballot envelopes would be required. USPS plans to withhold ballot deliveries to officials not adhering to these rules.
When Does Mail-in Voting Begin?
This year’s mail-in voting period begins as North Carolina starts sending out absentee ballots this Friday. Several other states will commence their mailing processes later in the month.
Implementation Challenges of the USPS Plan
Experts caution that implementing the USPS plan could lead to significant disruptions. A whistleblower report indicates issues with the untested online portal system for collecting voters’ information and a new policy that might delay ballot deliveries.
Legal Arguments For and Against the Plan
The USPS developed this plan following a March executive order from President Trump aiming to prevent voting by non-citizens. Nevertheless, studies and audits find such voting cases rare. Critics argue the USPS lacks legal authority to enforce such voting regulations, whereas USPS claims the rule serves mail regulation.
Has the Supreme Court Made a Decision?
In August, the Supreme Court addressed a procedural matter in one of the related lawsuits, but it has not yet determined the legality of the USPS plan or the executive order.
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