California should require mail-in ballots to arrive by Election Day

California should change its laws to require ballots to arrive by Election Day — even if the Supreme Court says it doesn’t have to do so.California’s leaders celebrated the Supreme Court’s decision in Watson v.RNC to allow states to accept ballots that arrive late, as long as they are postmarked by Election Day.But whether a law is constitutional is a separate question from whether it is the best policy.As Justice Samuel Alito made clear in his dissent, the majority’s decision creates uncertainty at a time when public confidence in election security is low.

California still counts ballots weeks after Election Day, a stark example of how late ballot deadlines can drag out elections and prolong disputes, further eroding public trust in our institutions.That should concern anyone who believes elections should be transparent, orderly and reliable. When ballots continue to arrive after polls close, the public is asked to accept a process that declares results before ballots have been received and counted.

Results can shift long after Election Day, headlines can change, and confidence in a fair process can deteriorate.Even when the rules are lawful, the appearance of an election that can take days to conclude invites suspicion and frustration.

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By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.Never miss a story Within our system of federalism, the state legislatures now have an opportunity to lead.

States have an obligation to strengthen election confidence by requiring mail-in ballots to be received no later than the close of polls on Election Day.That rule is simple and clear, and it restores the basic understanding that Election Day means results are determined on Election Day.The case for a firm receipt deadline is not complicated and becomes even stronger when you cons...