Court upholds Washington gubernatorial election
Republican attempts to overturn the 129-vote victory of Democratic Governor Christine Gregoire on the basis of election errors, illegal voters and fraud were dismissed in court.
In his ruling, Chelan County Superior Court Judge John Bridges said:
“Unless an election is clearly invalid, when the people have spoken their verdict should not be disturbed by the courts.”
Judge Bridges stated that the Washington election system is flawed and in need of reform. However, he believes it is the role of the legislative and executive branches of government to take action to fix the state’s electoral process.
An appeal of the decision is expected. Perhaps state Republicans are looking for an ‘activist judge’ who is willing to overturn the election?
posted by Unknown @ 2:49 PM
3 comments
3 Comments:
Actually... it was an activist judge who "upheld" the election results.. Gregoire has no business running this state.
An 'activist judge' upheld the election results? That statement doesn't jibe with the facts.
Washington state Republicans went to Wenatchee, the heart of Dino Rossi country, to file their lawsuit alleging he was robbed of the governorship by voting fraud and mistakes.
Rossi made the right choice in pursuing the legal case. And he made the right choice Monday in calling things to a halt.
Now it's time for the legislature to resolve the remaining issues (little 'd') democratically.
One can definately argue that voting, and counting, irregularities resulted in Gregoire "winning" the Washington gubernatorial race. However, following the certification of the results of the election - a process that occurs after recounts - any decision by a judge to overturn the election would have to be considered "activist."
The judge ruled within the intent of the law. While election errors, illegal voters and fraud did occur the courts do not have the authority to fix those issues, especially retroactively.
What we really need to take from this whole case our nation (and state) needs electorial reform that ensures all Americans have access to the polls and that every vote is counted.
Post a Comment
<< Home