Raleigh, NC – The closely contested race for a seat on the North Carolina Supreme Court saw significant developments Friday as Republican candidate Jefferson Griffin faced legal setbacks in his bid to overturn the election results. Federal and state rulings upheld Democrat Allison Riggs’ narrow 734-vote victory, bringing the contentious race closer to a resolution.
Federal Court Ruling
U.S. District Judge Richard Myers denied Griffin’s request for a temporary restraining order to block the North Carolina State Board of Elections from certifying Riggs’ win. Griffin’s attorneys argued that the certification process should be paused while questions surrounding alleged ineligible votes were resolved. Judge Myers rejected the argument, stating that no evidence presented demonstrated that halting certification was warranted.
Dismissal of Election Protests
On the same day, the State Board of Elections dismissed election protests filed by Griffin and three Republican legislative candidates who also lost close races. The board’s decision came down to party-line votes, with the Democratic majority voting 3-2 to reject the protests.
The board determined that the number of ballots challenged as ineligible in each race was insufficient to overcome the margins of victory. In Griffin’s case, the 734-vote difference out of more than 5.5 million ballots cast rendered the protests moot. Similarly, the legislative races — involving two state Senate and one House seat — had vote margins ranging from 128 to 228, all favoring the Democratic candidates.
Recounts and Results
Riggs, an associate justice on the Supreme Court, led Griffin, a Court of Appeals judge, following recounts that confirmed her victory. The tight margins highlight the high stakes and close scrutiny that have defined this year’s judicial and legislative races in North Carolina.
Broader Implications
This ruling underscores the critical role courts play in settling disputes over election integrity, particularly in tight races. While Griffin and the other Republican candidates may continue to explore legal avenues, experts note that overturning certified results remains an uphill battle.
North Carolina has seen increased polarization in recent election cycles, and judicial races have taken on heightened importance due to their potential impact on key issues like redistricting and voting rights. Riggs’ victory maintains the current Democratic majority on the state Supreme Court, a factor that could influence future legal battles over state policy.
What’s Next?
Griffin has not yet announced whether he will appeal the decisions. However, time is running out as the State Board of Elections prepares to certify the results officially. Legal experts suggest that without substantial new evidence, Griffin’s chances of overturning the outcome appear slim.
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