The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday heard arguments in a closely watched case, Watson v. RNC, that could determine whether states may count mail-in ballots received after Election Day in federal elections.
The case challenges a Mississippi law allowing absentee ballots postmarked by Election Day to be counted if received within five days. Fourteen other states and D.C. have similar provisions. At issue is whether federal law requiring a single Election Day mandates that ballots be received by that date, or if states can accept late-arriving but timely mailed ballots.
During arguments, Justice Samuel Alito questioned the meaning of “Election Day,” suggesting it implies a fixed deadline. Attorneys for the Republican National Committee argued ballots must be received by polls’ close, while supporters of Mississippi’s law cited states’ traditional authority over election mechanics and logistical concerns for military and overseas voters.
A ruling is expected in late June and could clarify whether ballots arriving after Election Day may be counted if postmarked on time, potentially impacting federal elections nationwide.
