Activists File Federal Lawsuit to Challenge Baltimore Primary

A group of activists is asking a federal court to order a new primary for Baltimore voters, alleging that a series of irregularities and a “vote-buying scheme” marred the election’s outcome.

Members of Voters Organized for the Integrity of City Elections, or VOICE, joined two candidates and an ex-offender as plaintiffs in a lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court moments before midnight Wednesday against the city and state elections boards.

They are asking the court to declare the results of the primary “null and void,” order a new vote at the earliest date possible and appoint federal observers to oversee the election and “systemic changes in practices, procedures and personnel.”

The filing also alleges that the administration of the election disenfranchised African-Americans, who make up the majority of Baltimore’s population.

No hearing date has been set.

 

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