In a 5-4 Supreme Court ruling, states can continue counting mail-in ballots arriving after Election Day, raising fresh concerns about election timelines and integrity in Virginia and nationwide. Uriah Kiser breaks down the decision, its ties to controversial California practices, and what it means for the Commonwealth.

Justice Amy Coney Barrett authored the majority opinion, joined by Chief Justice John Roberts and Democrat-appointed justices. The case centered on Mississippi’s policy allowing ballots up to five days late, but it affects practices in at least 17 states plus D.C., with some allowing ballots as many as 14 days after Election Day if postmarked on time.

Virginia offers 45 days of early in-person and mail voting—plenty of time for voters to participate responsibly. Yet the ruling raises questions about why ballots arriving ...