Four years ago, there were legal disputes over the 2020 election in Nevada, with Republicans filing numerous challenges and spreading claims of mass election fraud. However, after over 100 hours of investigation by the Republican secretary of state and her team, it was determined that there was no evidence to support these claims, and the challenges were ultimately dismissed by multiple judges.
Now, as the Nov. 5 election approaches, experts predict similar post-election challenges in Nevada. Pre-election challenges have been ongoing, with both valid steps taken by campaigns and frivolous actions aimed at spreading election disinformation. However, the secretary of state’s office, Nevada courts, political parties, and voting rights organizations are prepared for any challenges that may arise.
Experts anticipate lawsuits cropping up post-election, especially with well-funded and coordinated efforts to challenge election results. There are two key deadlines to keep in mind – on Dec. 11, each state’s governor must certify the results for president and vice president, and on Dec. 17, each state’s electors must meet to hold the state electoral vote. Any final disputes about the presidential elections must be resolved by this point.
The secretary of state’s office has established an Election Integrity Violation Reports process to investigate claims promptly, rather than waiting until after the election. The District of Nevada, the Eighth Judicial District Court in Clark County, and the Nevada Supreme Court are all prepared to handle any time-sensitive challenges relating to the election.
Both political parties and presidential campaigns have teams of election attorneys ready to address reports as they come in and are prepared to litigate if necessary. The RNC has recruited 200,000 volunteers to monitor the casting and counting of ballots, while Democrats in Nevada will also observe the polls and address any issues that arise.
The ACLU is focused on protecting access to the ballot and has filed a lawsuit to ensure poll observers can watch the process. They will have attorneys on the ground reporting on any issues at polling sites and are prepared to file lawsuits if needed.
Post-election processes in Nevada will include legitimate contests over the validity of the count, including recounts and audits. These processes provide an opportunity for each party to raise objections or make legal arguments before the election is certified. Experts differentiate these processes from attempts to challenge the legitimacy of election outcomes.
Republicans in Nevada have raised concerns about the election system’s vulnerability to fraud due to laws passed by a Democratic-controlled legislature in 2021, including automatic mail ballot systems. They advocate for measures like requiring voter ID to increase election security.
Former President Donald Trump continues to make false claims about the 2020 election and has stated that voter fraud could impact the 2024 election. Lawsuits challenging election systems have already been filed in Nevada, with the goal of ensuring election integrity.
Misinformation can spread when election results are close, and efforts are being made to build trust in the election process. The Democracy Defense Project, led by former elected officials, is working to combat misinformation and increase voters’ trust in the system.
In conclusion, Nevada is gearing up for the upcoming election with preparations in place to address any challenges that may arise. The focus is on ensuring election integrity, protecting access to the ballot, and building trust in the election process. Despite potential legal disputes, officials and organizations are working to uphold the democratic process and maintain the integrity of the election.