Staff report
In a detailed appeal to the North Carolina State Board of Elections, Jefferson Griffin, candidate for N.C. Supreme Court Associate Justice, Seat 6, has challenged the Bladen County Board of Elections’ decision to dismiss his election protest. Griffin argues that the board failed to appropriately address concerns regarding ballots cast by individuals allegedly ineligible to vote due to felony convictions.
Background on the Protest
The appeal centers on the November 5, 2024, election for the N.C. Supreme Court Associate Justice, where Griffin contends that violations of election law and irregularities occurred. The protest was initially dismissed by the Bladen County Board on December 2, 2024. Griffin’s appeal asserts that substantial evidence exists to suggest that votes cast by ineligible voters may have affected the outcome.
Key Allegations in the Appeal
Griffin’s appeal highlights two cases of alleged ineligible voting:
1. William Lamont Pearsall Jr. – Convicted of a felony on October 31, 2024. The county board determined that his vote, cast prior to his conviction, was valid.
2. Latashia Jaqwece Smith – Serving a felony sentence on Election Day. The board concluded that her ballot remained valid due to procedural timelines related to voter registration challenges.
Griffin contends that these decisions conflict with guidance from the North Carolina State Board of Elections, which requires ballots cast by ineligible voters to be flagged as irregularities and referred to the state board for further action.
Procedural Dispute
Griffin’s appeal also notes that the County Board’s decision was delayed in reaching him due to a spam filter issue. He argues that this technical issue should not disqualify his appeal, emphasizing the importance of resolving the case on its merits to uphold election integrity.
Legal Basis for the Appeal
The appeal cites N.C. Gen. Stat. § 163-182.10 and related state election laws, arguing that the County Board erred in not referring the identified irregularities to the State Board of Elections. Griffin maintains that this procedural oversight undermines public confidence in the election process.
Relief Sought
Griffin requests that the State Board of Elections reverse the County Board’s decision and take jurisdiction over the matter. He seeks a thorough review to determine the impact of any ineligible ballots on the election outcome.
This appeal underscores the tension between procedural adherence and the broader goal of ensuring fair elections. As the State Board of Elections considers Griffin’s challenge, the case highlights the critical role of oversight in addressing allegations of election law violations and irregularities.
This document draws from Griffin’s comprehensive filings, including detailed evidence and procedural arguments. It exemplifies the complexities of election law and the challenges of ensuring electoral integrity in tightly contested races.
Author: staff report
About Author
