Astronauts For America Statement on the Supreme Court’s Ruling on Mail-In Ballot Grace Period

Today, just a few months before the 2026 midterm elections, the Supreme Court ruled that mail-in ballots postmarked before, but received within five days after Election Day, must be counted. We at Astronauts For America are pleased to see the justices take this critical step toward safeguarding free and fair elections, and ensuring that every eligible voter has their ballot counted. 

As astronauts, some of us cast our votes from space. As military veterans, many of us relied on voting by mail. Upholding this grace period ensures that astronauts and other Americans are able to exercise their civil rights. 

Voting is the cornerstone of our American democracy and this is an important step forward in our battle to ensure everyone has the right to vote.

While the Supreme Court ruling should be celebrated, we must continue standing up for our democracy and constitutional principles.