NAACP Applauds Supreme Court Decision Protecting Mail-In Voting Access Nationwide

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 29, 2026
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WASHINGTON - Today, the NAACP applauded the U.S. Supreme Court's 5-4 decision in Watson v. Republican National Committee to protect mail-in voting access, affirming the rights of millions of Americans who rely on absentee and mail ballots to participate in our democracy and make their voices heard.

The ruling represents a critical victory for voters across the country, particularly Black voters, seniors, rural communities, military personnel stationed overseas, and individuals with disabilities who disproportionately depend on mail-in voting to make their voices heard.

"Good news rarely comes out of this Supreme Court, but today's ruling is a win for our democracy," said Derrick Johnson, President & CEO of the NAACP. "Your vote still matters, otherwise, those in power, like Donald Trump, wouldn't be trying so hard to silence you at every turn. These rare victories should energize everyone to show up at the polls this November and vote, because if we do, we can and we will stop this tyrannical administration."

The case came amid growing national concern over attempts to limit or block access to mail-in voting. Efforts that NAACP and other civil rights groups warned would disproportionately disenfranchise marginalized communities. Voting by mail has long served as a critical tool to expand participation in elections, ensuring that individuals who cannot vote in person still have an opportunity to engage in the democratic process.

While this is a victory for voters, the NAACP emphasized that the fight to protect voting rights is far from over. Across the country, state legislatures - particularly in the South - continue to introduce policies that limit access to the ballot, from restrictive identification requirements to redistricting efforts that dilute Black voting strength.

Most recently, the NAACP sued President Trump to fight his Executive Order to limit mail-in ballots to an approved list of absentee voters. The Association will continue its commitment to defending every American's right to vote - in person, by mail, or by any lawful means - and to ensuring that elections remain free, fair, and accessible to all. To learn more about NAACP's fight to protect the right to vote, visit naacp.org/vote.

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About NAACP

The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund - also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.