Secretary Fontes responds to SCOTUS blocking new USPS rules for mail ballots

PHOENIX – Today the U.S. Supreme Court (SCOTUS) ruled against Trump’s executive order instructing the United State Post Office (USPS) to only deliver ballots to voters on the approved mail-in ballot list.

“I am thankful that SCOTUS saw Trump’s executive order for what it was: a disgusting overreach from the federal government. By ruling against it, SCOTUS has effectively ruled in favor of American democracy,” said Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes. 

“Arizona knows best that mail in voting is not only secure, but one of the easiest ways to expand access to voting, increase participation in our elections, and ensure that every eligible voter in the state can vote. For decades, Arizona’s mail-in voting system has served the vast majority of voters each election season. As our country’s executive office continues to attack elections, it is crucial for us to continue rejecting the notion that access and security are mutually exclusive when it comes to running strong elections,” Fontes added.  

The decision comes less than two weeks after a document was released where a whistleblower at the USPS said that the organization is defying multiple court orders by embarking on a “secretive, rushed” effort to implement the executive order, a process that the whistleblower said could have “potentially catastrophic problems” with handling mail ballots.  

“I am glad that SCOTUS has made the decision that removes voting roadblocks and continues allowing Arizonans to vote in the way that best fits their schedule. This decision also removes the unnecessary burden that changing USPS rules would put on election who have already been preparing for months to ensure the election goes smoothly,” said Fontes. 

Now that Arizona has certainty that mail in voting will remain secure, make a plan to vote in 6 simple steps: 

1. CHECK IT.
   Check your voter registration at Arizona.Vote. Make sure your information is accurate and up to date.
2. TRACK IT.
   Sign up for ballot tracking so you know when your ballot is sent and when it’s received back.
3. RECEIVE IT.
   Keep an eye on your mailbox. Mail ballots begin going out October 7. Check your mail regularly.
4. VOTE IT.
   Don’t let your ballot gather dust. Once you receive it, fill it out.
5. SIGN IT.
   Sign the affidavit envelope and seal it after placing your ballot inside.
6. RETURN IT.
   Return it early. Return your ballot by mail or by dropping it off at an official ballot drop box or voting location in your county as soon as possible.