Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has filed a lawsuit against the North Carolina State Board of Elections to demand that his name be removed from the state’s presidential ballot. A hearing is scheduled in Wake County Superior Court, with Kennedy’s lawyers arguing that the board’s refusal to remove his name violates his statutory right to withdraw. Despite dropping out of the race and endorsing former President Donald Trump, the board has insisted on keeping Kennedy on the ballot, citing practicality and cost concerns.
Kennedy’s lawsuit highlights the board’s inconsistency in applying the law, pointing out that the refusal to recognize his rights is a departure from its own arguments in a previous case regarding ballot access for the We The People Party. The complaint emphasizes that Kennedy followed all required procedures to withdraw his name and accuses the board of arbitrarily imposing its own subjective test on the statute’s plain language.
The board members who voted to keep Kennedy on the ballot cited concerns about reprinting already processed absentee ballots and the costs associated with the change. They argued that the decision was based on practical considerations and statutory requirements.
Kennedy’s legal team has emphasized the violation of his free-speech rights under the North Carolina Constitution and argued that the board’s actions are compelling him to remain on the ballot against his will. The case raises important questions about the integrity of the electoral process and the rights of candidates in North Carolina.
Source
Photo credit www.carolinajournal.com