In an era where the integrity of elections is often called into question, Guilford County’s Board of Elections has set an exemplary standard for transparency, efficiency, and adherence to democratic principles. Their unwavering commitment to ensuring fair and accurate election results has been evident throughout the 2024 election cycle, especially in the contentious race for the North Carolina Supreme Court seat between Democratic incumbent Associate Justice Allison Riggs and Republican challenger Judge Jefferson Griffin.
Despite the close nature of this race and the heightened scrutiny, the Board’s handling of the process has demonstrated the strength of our democratic system. Following a machine recount that confirmed Riggs’ narrow victory with a margin of 734 votes, Judge Griffin pursued a hand-eye recount involving nearly 8,900 ballots in Guilford County. The results of this recount have only reinforced the original findings, with Riggs gaining two votes and Griffin losing three. The small variance underscores the accuracy of the election process and the diligence of the election workers.
While the electoral process allows candidates to request recounts and file protests, it is equally important for candidates to respect the results once they have been verified. Judge Griffin’s continued pursuit of recounts and challenges—despite no substantial evidence of irregularities or changes that could alter the race’s outcome—raises concerns about the use of public resources and the unnecessary strain on election officials.
The Guilford County Board of Elections, led by Director Charlie Collicutt, has already spent significant time and effort addressing these recounts and protests. Their commitment to ensuring every vote is accurately counted is commendable, but the latest recounts have proven to be a redundancy that diverts resources from other critical responsibilities.
The state’s process for addressing protests is equally thorough. It has already dismissed several of Griffin’s challenges, and further hearings are scheduled. However, these actions, absent substantial evidence of irregularities, only serve to delay the inevitable: a concession.
It is time for Judge Griffin to follow the democratic norm of conceding gracefully. Continuing to contest the election without evidence does not serve his campaign, his supporters, or the state of North Carolina. It erodes trust in the electoral process and detracts from the hard work of the election officials who have maintained the highest standards of integrity.
Election results, especially in close races, are not always easy to accept. But the strength of our democracy lies in respecting the will of the voters, even when the outcome is not in our favor. Justice Riggs’ narrow victory reflects the choice of the people, and it is essential to honor that decision.
The Guilford County Board of Elections and its staff deserve immense gratitude for their steadfast dedication to upholding election integrity. Their work exemplifies the values of fairness and accuracy that are the cornerstone of our democratic system. Judge Griffin’s campaign should take note of this dedication and recognize that further recounts or challenges will not change the outcome. Still, it will only strain the resources and patience of those who work tirelessly to maintain our democratic process.
It is time to put this election behind us and move forward, focusing on the issues that truly matter to the people of North Carolina. Conceding the race would be a statesmanlike act and a testament to Judge Griffin’s respect for the democratic process. Let’s celebrate the hard work of the Guilford County Board of Elections and honor their efforts by ensuring our elections remain a model of integrity and transparency.