Late postmarks increased in 2026
They increased by 4133 during Washington state’s 2026 primary (compared to the 2024 primary). 74.8% of rejected ballots were attributed to late postmarks in 2026.

Ballot drop box expansions
In 2026, the office of the Secretary of State made funding available for counties to install new ballot drop boxes, improve their existing ballot drop boxes, or enhance communication plans to promote ballot drop box usage. Counties have used these funds to install 21 new ballot drop box locations. 

Emerging election issues

USPS service reliability
Continued attention and voter education on postmarking practices, delivery timelines, and late-arriving ballots. To help voters find out whether their mail ballots might be affected, Democracy Docket mapped zip codes↗️

where mail pickup changes were in effect. See the map from Oct. 1, 2026 below:

Election security resources
Changes in federal support and state efforts to maintain critical cybersecurity services. 

Voter confusion

Clear communication about ballot return options, deadlines, and ballot status tracking is paramount. 

Positive development

USPS rule blocked
On Sept. 14, the U.S. Supreme Court left an injunction in place preventing the new USPS ballot-mail rule from taking effect before the November General Election. Washington can proceed with its established election processes without implementing new requirements. 

For more information, see the recording of the Sept. 23 Tribal Affairs & Elections Committee Work Session meeting↗️. Click "View video" and skip to minute ~35.