WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump is encouraging his supporters to vote by mail in the upcoming November 3 congressional midterm elections, marking a notable change from his long-running criticism of mail-in voting.

Trump said Republicans can vote by mail, vote early or cast their ballots in person. He also promoted the options in a campaign video as Republicans prepare for the final weeks of the midterm campaign.

The shift comes after the Trump administration previously sought tighter federal rules for mail-in voting. The U.S. Supreme Court declined in September to allow the administration to enforce those proposed changes ahead of the midterms.

The change could have political significance because some Republican voters, particularly in rural areas, have traditionally relied on mail ballots because of long distances to polling places. With Congressional control at stake, both parties are focused on maximizing turnout before Election Day.

Trump's new message places greater emphasis on early voting and voter turnout, as the 2026 midterm elections enter their final month.