The Impact of the Fifth Circuit Ruling on Voting Rights

The Fifth Circuit's recent ruling in RNC v. Wetzel raises significant concerns regarding voting rights, particularly the legality of counting ballots received after Election Day. This decision challenges the established laws in 18 states and Washington, D.C., which allow the counting of such ballots sent or postmarked by Election Day. The ruling suggests a radical reinterpretation of federal law that could drastically alter the election process, arguing that Congress has historically prohibited counting these ballots without establishing a clear precedent for this interpretation. Such an opinion, if upheld, could destabilize election practices, thereby impacting the voting rights of millions as courts grapple with its implications.