Overview
- Justices granted review in Watson v. Republican National Committee, a challenge to Mississippi’s five‑day grace period for counting mail ballots postmarked by Election Day.
- The 5th Circuit ruled in 2024 that federal law requires ballots to be both cast and received by Election Day, reversing a district court that had upheld Mississippi’s policy.
- Mississippi officials, including Attorney General Lynn Fitch and Secretary of State Michael Watson, argue a ballot is cast when mailed by Election Day and warn the 5th Circuit’s rule would trigger nationwide disruption.
- The challengers include the Republican National Committee, the Mississippi Republican Party, and the Libertarian Party of Mississippi, asserting that late receipt extends the election beyond the date set by Congress.
- Roughly 30 states and D.C. accept at least some ballots postmarked by Election Day but received later, and the Court plans arguments in early 2026 with a decision likely by June.