Georgia Court Hears Ballot Challenge Against Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
ATLANTA — In a significant development for the upcoming presidential election, a Georgia court is reviewing challenges aimed at disqualifying independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. from the November ballot. Opponents claim that Kennedy’s New York address listed on his ballot access petitions is fraudulent.
This situation arises following a New York court’s recent ruling that declared Kennedy does not reside at the aforementioned address in a suburban New York City neighborhood. While the judge prohibited Kennedy from appearing on ballots in New York, he is currently appealing that decision.
In a separate trial commencing in Long Island, New York, further scrutiny is being placed on Kennedy’s eligibility for the state’s presidential ballot.
In Georgia, challengers argue that Kennedy’s use of the New York address invalidates his petitions. Lawyer Adam Sparks stated, “The court found, by clear and convincing evidence, that petitioners have shown his New York residence was a sham used for political purposes. He doesn’t live there, and he claimed to on every sheet of his petition here in Georgia. That’s improper.”
Kennedy’s legal representation countered with evidence of his voting history to substantiate his claim of New York residency. Lawyer Larry Otter declared, “Mr. Kennedy has been a lifelong resident of the state of New York.” He also argued that the challengers are attempting to impose additional qualifications beyond what is outlined in the U.S. Constitution.
Sparks contended that Kennedy’s affiliation with multiple political parties in other states, including his own "We the People Party," disqualifies him from being considered an independent candidate under Georgia law.
Democrats are also challenging the ballot qualifications of independent candidates Cornel West and Claudia De la Cruz, who have garnered attention due to their potential to influence Georgia’s electoral outcome. Although these candidates may not win Georgia’s 16 electoral votes, their presence could potentially sway the results, given that Joe Biden won the state by less than 12,000 votes in 2020.
All three candidates, including Kennedy, West, and De la Cruz, have reportedly collected the required 7,500 signatures for ballot access. Additionally, Jill Stein, another independent candidate, is expected to leverage a new Georgia law facilitating ballot placement for parties recognized in at least 20 states.
Administrative Law Judge Michael Malihi will assess the challenges presented against Kennedy and De la Cruz, with further inquiries planned for West and the Green Party later this week. The final judgment will be relayed to Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, who will render the decisive ruling before military and overseas ballots are distributed starting September 17.
As legal arguments unfold, claims arise regarding the compliance of nomination petitions, with Democrats asserting that all 16 electors for both Kennedy and De la Cruz need individual filings, a stance challenged by the candidates’ legal teams.
Concerns have been voiced over the technicalities of the challenges, with critics labeling them anti-democratic maneuvers aimed at undermining voter intent.
Georgia is among numerous states where Democrats have launched petitions against Kennedy, while his campaign maintains confidence in having sufficient support for ballot access nationwide.
In related news, ongoing legal battles extend to Pennsylvania, where Kennedy’s use of a purported false address is contested. The challenges continue, inviting further examination of electoral processes as the election date approaches.
