A retirees’ group, represented by the law firm of Democratic operative Marc Elias, has moved to intervene in a lawsuit filed by Republicans challenging North Carolina’s rules for mail-in absentee ballot envelopes. The group, known as the North Carolina Alliance for Retired Americans, believes that the state’s election policy does not violate any laws and is aimed at disenfranchising voters by creating unnecessary barriers. The lawsuit stems from the State Board of Elections revising memo 2021-03, which implements laws governing absentee ballots.
According to the Republican National Committee (RNC), the revised memo states that absentee ballots do not need to be returned in sealed containers to be counted, which directly contradicts state statutes. The RNC argues that this policy weakens absentee ballot safeguards and violates North Carolina state law. Both RNC Chairman Michael Whatley and NCGOP Chairman Jason Simmons have expressed their commitment to upholding election integrity and ensuring adherence to statutory requirements.
This lawsuit is just one of several complaints filed by Republican groups against the state elections board in recent weeks. The retirees’ group and their legal representation are seeking to intervene in the case to protect the rights of voters and ensure that election laws are followed. The outcome of this legal battle could have significant implications for the 2024 general election in North Carolina.
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