Old North News

Thousands of North Carolinians participated in rallies over the President's Day weekend to protest against Jefferson Griffin, a GOP state Supreme Court candidate. Griffin has been seeking to overturn the election results by challenging over 66,000 votes. These protests were part of "The People v. Griffin" movement and occurred across various locations from the mountains to the coast.

North Carolina's Republican Senate Leader Phil Berger publicly criticized Griffin's actions, stating that "the equities are with the voters." This sentiment was echoed by former GOP Charlotte mayor Richard Vinroot and conservative state Supreme Court Justice Richard Dietz, who labeled Griffin's litigation as "meritless."

While Berger expressed some support for challenges involving approximately 5,500 voters, many of whom are active-duty military personnel serving abroad, former military leaders have opposed these challenges. Louis Caldera and other retired military officials emphasized that service members have a constitutionally-protected right to vote.

During the rallies, speakers included voters who were directly challenged by Griffin. Jenna Marrocco and Alexia Chavis voiced their concerns about fair elections and questioned Griffin's motives and evidence.

The rallies were organized by Common Cause North Carolina along with various local and statewide organizations. Gino Nuzzolillo from Common Cause North Carolina stated that the public opposition highlights how many voters could be affected by Griffin's challenges.

Despite multiple recounts confirming Democratic Justice Allison Riggs' victory over Griffin by 734 votes in 2024, Griffin continues his legal efforts. More protests are anticipated throughout the month as citizens demand respect for election outcomes.

The events were supported by organizations such as NC State AFL-CIO, ACLU of North Carolina, Democracy NC, NC NAACP, and others committed to protecting voter rights.