OU Expert: Mail-In Ballots Have Long History in America

Mail-In Voting Has Deep Roots

While mail-in ballots have drawn political controversy in recent years, experts stress they are nothing new. Dr. Michael Crespin, Director of the Carl Albert Center at the University of Oklahoma, says America has a long history of voting by mail, and the system has proven to be both dependable and secure.

Dr. Michael Crespin, Director of the Carl Albert Center at the University of Oklahoma

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Legal Limits on Mail-in Ballots Executive Action

Crespin emphasized that any attempt to end mail-in voting by presidential executive order would be invalid.

“Mail-in ballots are a dependable way to express our political preferences,” Crespin said.“A presidential executive order is not a valid way to end mail-in balloting. It would take an act of Congress.”

Why It Matters

Election officials say that ensuring public trust in voting methods is critical heading into 2026. Mail-in ballots remain an option for voters who cannot make it to polling places, particularly seniors, military families, and Oklahomans in rural areas.