Not precisely a massive setback, but one where the hot potato continues to be passed around. From Potomac Local:
Republicans argued state law allows incumbent candidates who have won a previous Primary Elections to automatically be allowed another Primary. The judge didn’t see it that way and said state law mandates a Primary Election must be requested by a party or candidate in advance.
Sheridan also denied a request to issue a declaratory judgement that could have ordered the local electoral board to a Primary.
“It is not for a judge, in light of all this, to tell [political] parties, state, or local organizations how to proceed,” said Sheridan.
So where does this go now? Back to the Prince William Board of Elections, who should refer it to the State Board of Elections, where the matter can be cleared up in 15 minutes (if this were not a politicized process, that is).
…and unfortunately, it is becoming one:
“This is an attempt by the Democratic Party to disenfranchise members of our military, the disabled, and those who will not be able to participate in this electoral process,” said Prince William County Board of Supervisors Chairman, At-large Corey Stewart.
Stewart added the Electoral Board has historically been non-partisan, but added that it is no more. He also voiced confidence that his fellow incumbent Republicans will win the local races.
Goes without saying, but Corey Stewart is 100% right.
Here’s the additional rub — there’s absolute certainty that the previous State Board of Elections would have ruled for the primary contest to continue accordingly. So for this to suddenly become a question mark where in times past it was a fine period? Smacks of politics and politics alone…
If folks are concerned about process, then let the process stand. Otherwise, should this spiral out of control, what happens in other places — the 24th State Senate District comes to mind — where we have similar concerns?
