The United States Postal Service has reported strong performance in handling election mail this month, delivering 99.9% of mail-in ballots to election officials within seven days and 99.7% within three days during the first three weeks of October. Despite this success, the Postal Service is advising voters to mail their ballots early to avoid any potential delivery delays.
To ensure timely delivery, USPS recommends that voters send their ballots at least one week before Election Day. In preparation for the upcoming election, the Postal Service has implemented various measures to address potential mail delays, such as additional deliveries and pickups, local handling and transportation of ballots, and specialized sorting plans for election mail at postal facilities.
USPS Director of Election and Government Mail Services, Adrienne Marshall, emphasized the ongoing efforts to maintain excellent election mail performance nationwide. Marshall highlighted the proactive approach taken by USPS to swiftly resolve any issues that may arise, ensuring a smooth process leading up to the general election.
Concerns have been raised regarding election mail delivery in areas affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, particularly in North Carolina and Florida. Despite challenges, Postal Service officials have reported a decrease in non-deliveries to 4,600 in North Carolina and 600 in Florida. Collaboration between USPS and election officials in these regions aims to provide voters with alternative voting options to ensure their voices are heard.