Citizens Defending Freedom Supports USPS Proposal to Strengthen Ballot Mail Standards

MULBERRY, Fla. – Citizens Defending Freedom (CDF) has submitted a formal public comment supporting the United States Postal Service's proposed rule, Ballot Mail for Federal Elections (39 CFR Part 111), which would amend the Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM), regarding the transmission of mail-in and absentee ballots used in federal elections.

Under the proposal, states would have to provide lists of their absentee ballot mailings and follow consistent procedures when sending and receiving ballots through the mail during federal elections, while preserving accommodations for military and overseas voters covered under the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA). According to the Postal Service, the proposal is designed to improve consistency, accountability, and transparency in the handling of election-related mail. Recent reporting indicates the proposal also serves as the Postal Service's response to President Trump's March 2026 executive order addressing federal ballot mail procedures. 

Why CDF Supports the Proposal

In its public comment, Citizens Defending Freedom highlighted several provisions that would strengthen ballot mail administration while preserving the constitutional role of states in conducting elections.

1. Improved Ballot Tracking and Documentation

The proposal would establish standardized ballot mail requirements, including the use of unique Intelligent Mail Barcodes and uniform ballot preparation standards. These measures would improve visibility throughout the ballot transmission process and provide election officials with stronger documentation and tracking capabilities.

2. Greater Coordination Between Election Officials and USPS

The proposed rule encourages pre-election coordination between state election officials and the Postal Service, helping identify logistical challenges before ballots enter the mail system. CDF noted that improved communication and planning can contribute to more efficient ballot processing and delivery.

3. Enhanced Recordkeeping and Verification

The proposal would create State-Specific Mail-In and Absentee Participation Lists and establish verification procedures designed to ensure compliance with ballot mail standards before ballots are accepted into the mail system. These provisions provide election officials with additional tools to monitor ballot transmission activity and maintain accurate records.

4. Respect for State Authority

CDF emphasized its support for provisions making clear that the Postal Service's role is limited to the handling and transmission of mail. The proposed rule does not alter voter eligibility requirements, voter registration systems, or state authority over election administration. States remain responsible for conducting elections, maintaining voter rolls, and determining voter eligibility.

About Citizens Defending Freedom

Founded in 2021, Citizens Defending Freedom is a non-profit organization dedicated to equipping and empowering American citizens to stand for and preserve freedom for themselves and future generations. Through research, education, training, and community engagement, CDF equips citizens and mobilizes the Body of Christ to address local challenges, promote government accountability, and advance freedom within their communities