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USPS pushes back measures that ensure mail ballots arrive on time
Democracy Docket • • nation
Key Points:
- The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) has delayed the start of its "extraordinary measures" to handle election mail by five days, beginning on October 24 instead of the usual October 21, giving workers only 10 days before Election Day on November 3.
- These measures include a new Regional Transportation Optimization policy, separate ballot drop-off lines, extended retail hours, and drive-through options at busy post offices to manage the increased volume of mail ballots.
- Mandatory handling of return ballots to local election boards will begin on October 26, further shortening the time USPS has historically allocated for election mail processing.
- The memo announcing the delay did not explain the reason for the change, nor did it indicate any anticipated problems, but experts note the compressed timeline is unusual compared to previous elections.
- This development follows recent controversies involving former President Trump’s attempts to influence USPS mail ballot handling, including a failed legal effort and whistleblower reports of agency defiance against court orders.
