The Republican National Committee (RNC) has initiated a federal lawsuit against Nevada, aiming to halt the counting of mail-in ballots received after Election Day, as allowed under the state’s current law.
Enacted by Democrats in 2021, the law permits the counting of mail ballots received up to four days after Election Day, provided they are postmarked before the end of Election Day. The lawsuit argues that this provision violates the U.S. Constitution’s mandate for a single Election Day.
RNC Chairman Michael Whatley emphasized the importance of upholding federal law and preserving election integrity, asserting that ballots arriving days after Election Day should not be included in the count.
GOP challenges to mail ballot deadlines (Credits: AP News)
This legal action follows similar suits by Republicans challenging post-Election Day ballot counting in Mississippi and North Dakota.
It marks the 83rd election-related lawsuit filed by the party in the six months leading up to the election, reflecting heightened litigation activity and the party’s emphasis on contesting election regulations.
Currently, 19 states, including Nevada, allow the counting of ballots received after Election Day. Supporters argue that such measures facilitate voting accessibility and provide mail-in voters with equitable decision-making time.
GOP backs voting by mail, yet turns to courts to restrict it (Credits: NPR)
However, opponents raise concerns about delayed election results, diminished trust in the electoral process, and potential exploitation of the system.
Responding to the lawsuit, Nevada’s Democratic secretary of state, Francisco Aguilar, criticized the RNC’s legal action, urging a focus on voter education alongside legal challenges. Aguilar highlighted the importance of ensuring voter participation while acknowledging the ongoing legal dispute over election regulations.
