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Sixth Circuit Court Upholds Longstanding Kentucky Election Laws

govoter.org

The United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit recently upheld important and longstanding Kentucky election laws regarding ballot access procedures for certain political groups and organizations.

Secretary of State Alison Lundergan Grimes and the Kentucky State Board of Elections successfully defended the Commonwealth's election administration procedures after the Libertarian National Committee and the Libertarian and Constitution Parties of Kentucky challenged state ballot access laws.

Two federal courts affirmed current Kentucky law which requires candidates of "political groups" to submit nominating petitions in order to appear on general election ballots. Circuit Judge Danny J. Boggs said the laws as written are "central to the regulation of elections."

"I am pleased the courts continue to recognize the important interests the Commonwealth has in avoiding voter confusion and overcrowded ballots," said Grimes. "This ruling is significant for all Kentucky voters and for election administration."

Political group candidates for U.S. President and Vice President on Kentucky’s general election ballot had until Sept. 9 at 4 p.m. ET to file petitions with the Secretary of State's office.

Attorneys Jon Salomon and Kate Crosby of Tachau Meek PLC represented Grimes and the Board of Elections defendants in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky and on appeal to the Sixth Circuit.

(story provided by the Office of Kentucky Secretary of State)

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