Number: RL32471
Title: Executive Branch Power to Postpone Elections
Authors: Kenneth R. Thomas, American Law Division 
Abstract: Because of the continuing threat of terrorism, concerns have been raised about the potential for terrorist events to occur close to or during the voting process for the November 2004 elections. For instance, the question has been raised as to whether a sufficiently calamitous event could result in the postponement of the election, and what mechanisms are in place to deal with such an event. This report focuses on who has the constitutional authority to postpone elections, to whom such power could be delegated, and what legal limitations exist to such a postponement.
Pages: 7
Date: July 14, 2004