Issa Sues California to Stop Mail-in Ballot Counting After Election Day

Republican Congressman Darrell Issa has filed a lawsuit against the state of California, challenging the counting of mail-in ballots received after Election Day. The lawsuit, lodged in San Diego Superior Court, aims to halt the practice which Issa claims undermines the integrity of elections.

Issa's legal action targets a California law that allows ballots postmarked by Election Day to be counted if they arrive within seven days after the election. He argues that this system could lead to prolonged uncertainty in election outcomes and potentially disenfranchise voters who expect a swift resolution on election night.

The lawsuit has sparked a significant debate on the reliability and fairness of mail-in voting systems. Proponents of the current law argue that it ensures more voters can participate, particularly those who may face delays in mail delivery. Critics, including Issa, contend that it opens the door to potential fraud and manipulation.

California's Secretary of State has defended the law, emphasizing its role in increasing voter turnout and ensuring that all eligible votes are counted. The outcome of this legal challenge could have broader implications for voting rights and election procedures across the United States.

This lawsuit comes at a time when mail-in voting has become a focal point of political discourse, especially following the 2020 presidential election where its use surged due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

• 2020 presidential election
• California
• Darrell Issa
• San Diego Superior Court