Republican lawmakers are dismissing President Trump’s strong criticism of mail-in ballots, asserting that it won’t stop GOP voters from using the method. The Supreme Court recently ruled that mail-in ballots postmarked by Election Day but arriving later could still be counted. Trump criticized this decision, deeming it a ‘tremendous loss’ and calling for legislation to restrict the practice further, including requiring proof of citizenship for voter registration.
Trump frequently attacks mail-in voting, citing unsubstantiated claims of ‘massive voter fraud,’ while acknowledging his own use of the method. Nonetheless, House Republicans argue Trump’s harsh rhetoric won’t significantly impact voters opting for the method, which could be pivotal for the GOP in tight races this fall. ‘We’ve seen it stabilize in recent years, reverting to old patterns,’ stated Republican-turned-independent Rep. Kevin Kiley (Calif.).
States Counting Postmarked Ballots
Several states allow postmarked Election Day ballots to be counted within a grace period, including Alaska, Washington, Oregon, California, and others, along with Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and Guam, as reported by the National Conference of State Legislatures.
Despite Trump’s opposition, a federal judge ruled against an executive order he issued in March, which required the federal government to list eligible voters, allowing mail ballots only for those approved by the government. The court noted, ‘Plaintiff States will incur compliance costs if the EO directives go into effect.’
Trump defended voting by mail in Florida, explaining to reporters in March, ‘Because I’m president of the United States.’ He emphasized his position was due to presidential duties in Washington, D.C., instead of enjoying Florida’s sunshine.
White House Stance and Congressional Support
The White House expressed confidence in Trump’s executive action succeeding through the courts. ‘President Trump is committed to ensuring Americans have full confidence in our elections,’ stated White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson. She emphasized the executive order lawfully protects elections, and confidence in its eventual implementation.
Some Republicans agree with Trump’s criticism, suggesting ballots received post-Election Day should not be counted, advocating for a stricter grace period. Rep. Abe Hamadeh (R-Ariz.) remarked Trump aims for Election Day results with public confidence.
Counting Time and Concerns
California’s ballot counting duration has raised concerns. Mail ballots there are accepted up to seven days post-Election Day if postmarked by then. Experts cited logistical reasons and voter timing, noting some Democrats cast votes late, affecting count timing.
Republicans also criticize ‘ballot harvesting,’ where one person delivers another’s completed ballot. However, evidence of mass voter fraud, including through mail ballots, is minimal. Even the Heritage Foundation’s fraud map only notes 71 cases in California from 1993 to 2025 amid 9.4 million ballots in a single primary.
Republican Encouragement for Mail-In Voting
Despite Trump’s influence on voting habits, Republicans doubt his mail-in voting criticism will deter usage in midterms. ‘No, if they understand it,’ commented House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer (R-Ky.), advising early mail voting due to inefficiency concerns.
Rep. Nick Begich (R-Alaska) confirmed voters wouldn’t be greatly affected, believing comfort with mail-in voting remains consistent. Republican groups advocate mail-in voting ahead of midterms, with ads promoting its safety and tracking reliability.
Experts observe decreased Republican skepticism over mail-in ballots since pandemic-related law changes. Awareness of mail-in voting as a strategic tool in tight races influences Republican campaigns to maintain its use.