Supreme Court Weighs Mail Ballot Deadlines

0:00The Supreme Court heard arguments Monday on a challenge to state laws that count mail ballots arriving after election day as long as they're postmarked on time. The case comes from Mississippi and could reshape rules in 14 other states, plus the District of Columbia. Conservatives on the bench seemed doubtful about these grace periods, which led ballots arrive up to five business days late in Mississippi. This fight ties into broader efforts by former President Donald Trump to limit mail voting, even though backers haven't shown any fraud from late. ballots. Mississippi's top lawyer noted zero proven cases. Meanwhile, 15 more states offer extra time for military and overseas voters, putting those rules at risk too. Election officials from big states like California, Texas, New York, Illinois, and Alaska warned that said in changes could confuse voters and leave. Some out, especially after years of flexible deadlines. Liberals on the court pushed back, saying states and Congress should handle these choices, not judges.

1:00Lower courts, including Trump appointed judges on the 5th Circuit, already struck down Mississippi's law, ruling a clashes with federal election, day rules. Four Republican-led states ditched their grace periods last year, and Trump's past executive order demanding ballots received by election day faces. It's own legal blocks. A decision should come by late June and time to shape the 2026 midterm elections, and settle how far states can stretch voting deadlines. Nature-wide, stay informed with Durham News Today, AI-powered updates. I'm Cory with the story.