USPS Delays Could Double Rejected Mail Ballots in Washington, UW Research Warns

A University of Washington research brief warns that ongoing changes to U.S. Postal Service mail processing could double the rate of mail ballots arriving too late to be counted in Washington state. The analysis, posted Oct. 21, highlights that tens of thousands of ballots may be at risk of rejection in the 2026 general election if voters rely on mailing their ballots close to Election Day. The findings point to operational shifts at USPS that have slowed delivery times, increasing the likelihood that ballots postmarked on time still miss legal deadlines. Washington, which conducts elections almost entirely by mail, is particularly vulnerable to such delays. Researchers urge voters to return ballots early or use official drop boxes to ensure their votes are counted. The brief underscores a growing concern over postal service reliability and its impact on democratic participation, especially in vote-by-mail states. With election officials facing tight certification windows, even a small percentage of late ballots could influence close races. The takeaway for Washington voters: don't wait—return your ballot as soon as possible.