The Alabama Republican Party (ALGOP) chairman vowed to fight for the truth after an election contest in Conecuh County was dismissed.
Republican candidate Mike Blackmon challenged Democrat Sheriff Randy Brock in the 2022 election. On Tuesday, Retired Mobile County Circuit Judge Braxton Kittrell declared Brock the winner and dismissed the case.
ALGOP chairman John Wahl said the decision was politically motivated.
"These facts should concern every citizen who values free and fair elections," said Wahl. "When voters are treated differently based on political affiliation and when ballots are mishandled or outright stolen, the entire democratic process is compromised."
Wahl said the party is shocked and deeply disappointed in the ruling. He added that the court failed to fully examine evidence of election irregularities.
"The decision to dismiss this case fails to properly examine the ballots in question or the significant evidence of election irregularities presented to the court," he said. "Yesterday was a dark day for Alabama's legal system. The court's refusal to conduct a full review of the contested ballots undermines the credibility of our elections and erodes the public's faith in a fair democratic process. The people of Conecuh County deserve better."
The race ended in a tie, but a recount by the canvassing board awarded Brock the win by a two-vote margin. Wahl claimed the canvassing board is made up of all Democratic members, and he said serious concerns were raised over the recount.
During a bench trial earlier this month, video evidence showed voters admitting to illegally filling out and submitting absentee ballots. A witness at the trial testified that her ballot was filled out and submitted by someone who stole her vote.
"I know one thing: I didn't vote for that man," voter Patricia Williams said on the stand.
Still, Judge Kittrell sided with the canvassing board, Wahl pointed out.
"Whatever the final outcome, there should have been a full review of this election contest," he continued. "Ms. Patricia Williams and the voters of Conecuh County deserve answers. They deserve transparency. They deserve their day in court."
He added, "The ALGOP will not allow this issue to be swept under the rug. We will fight to ensure that the voice of every voter is heard."
Wahl believes multiple Republican votes were disqualified because voters used a checkmark instead of filling in the oval, while similar ballots voting for Democrat candidates were accepted.
"Despite this clear and compelling evidence, the Democrat judge presiding over this contest dismissed the case, siding with the all-Democrat canvassing board without conducting a thorough review of the contested ballots," the ALGOP said in a statement. "This failure to ensure a fair and transparent process raises serious questions about the integrity of the election."
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email [email protected].
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning or become a member to gain access to exclusive content and 1819 News merch.
