Protesters Gather in Charlotte Against Vote Challenge in North Carolina Supreme Court Race
Amidst a contentious North Carolina Supreme Court race, hundreds gathered in uptown Charlotte on Monday to voice their opposition to Republican Jefferson Griffin’s move to invalidate numerous votes. Demonstrators assembled at Marshall Park, brandishing signs reading “Protect our votes” and “Shame on Griffin” as they made their way to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center.
Griffin’s challenge targets over 65,000 ballots, citing alleged deficiencies in voter registration data. This dispute is set to be reviewed by the North Carolina Supreme Court, where both Griffin and his opponent, incumbent Democrat Allison Riggs, are vying for a seat. Despite the challenge, many voters involved have consistently participated in elections without issue.
Laphaedra Howard, a Charlotte resident, addressed the rally, expressing her frustration over her husband’s inclusion in the contested ballot list. “He was very upset about it. Very upset about it. Like, how did they pick him?” she questioned. Highlighting their shared address and voting history, Howard added, “He doesn’t usually vote in the primaries but in the general election, every time.”
Another resident, Henry Young from University City, voiced his dismay over the situation. “It’s pretty irritating when you vote and your votes then don’t count, and that’s exactly what’s happening with this,” Young remarked. He further articulated the sentiment that “(Riggs) was fairly and freely elected… It feels like they want to change things so that they win. And that’s why we’re out here. We’re mad as hell.”
Following several recounts, Riggs holds a narrow lead of 734 votes. The “The People v. Griffin” rally was organized by Common Cause North Carolina, among others, and is one of many demonstrations planned across the state.
In a related development, the North Carolina Board of Elections has requested the state Supreme Court to expedite the case, bypassing the appeals court. Although the Supreme Court in North Carolina is Republican-controlled, any decision could still be subject to federal court appeals by either party.
