North Carolina Elections Board Shift Upheld Amid Appeals: Supreme Court Ruling

North Carolina Elections Board Shift Upheld Amid Appeals

The North Carolina Supreme Court has permitted a new law to take effect, transferring the authority to appoint members of the State Board of Elections from the Democratic governor to the State Auditor, even as its constitutionality remains under debate. This decision marks a victory for the Republican-controlled General Assembly, which approved the legislation last year.

Court Decision and Dissent

Governor Josh Stein's request to block the law's enforcement was declined by the court's Republican majority. Previously, a lower court had deemed the law unconstitutional, but the Court of Appeals allowed its implementation pending the outcome of ongoing appeals.

Impact of the New Board

The newly appointed board, selected by State Auditor Dave Boliek, has already been seated and has removed the Executive Director. The Supreme Court defended its decision by asserting that the Court of Appeals had grounds to suspend the trial judges' directive. This move effectively shifts the board's majority from Democratic to Republican.

Looking Ahead

In the meantime, the new board will take charge of overseeing campaign finance laws and preparing for the upcoming 2026 elections. Dissenting justices have voiced criticism regarding the majority's inaction and perceived bias in favor of the legislature. This ruling also empowers Boliek to appoint chairs of the county election boards.