Archive links: https://web.archive.org/web/20251229233408/https://bsky.app/profile/goldengateblond.bsky.social/post/3mb5t23bf3k23 or https://archive.is/uvuWB

If you want to vote by mail please do so as soon as you can and consider dropping it off at the counter where they will postmark it right away.

Also if you live in a state where you’re allowed to photograph your ballot consider doing so to have proof you voted a certain way.

Note that as a counterpoint the federal register website claims they are just clarifying language to improve public understanding: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/08/12/2025-15266/postmarks-and-postal-possession

I didn’t check that document very closely yet.

  • BigDaddySlim@lemmy.worldEnglish
    181·
    3 hours ago

    This isn’t technically new, mail doesn’t get a postmark stamp unless it’s collected over the retail counter by clerks, and usually only on regular stamped mail (non-metered). If you had your mail in your mailbox with the flag up and is picked up by your carrier, it goes directly on the truck to the regional sorting facility and is processed and stamped there. Unless your mail comes directly from a regional sorting facility, it is not stamped at your local office if not handed in over the counter.

    However, with election ballots, we are instructed to have them separate from other outgoing mail, regardless of when it’s picked up to be kept in office and delivered to the town hall/voting location the following day. This is the case with all 3 offices I’ve worked at, in 2 different regional areas. Only exception is if they’re absentee ballots for other towns.

    Definitely drop a ballot off directly if you’re cutting it close to election day to make absolutely sure it’s counted in time though, and obviously, VOTE.