Disputed State Senate Race Set for Hearing in Lee County
LEE COUNTY, S.C. — The South Carolina Election Commission will hold a hearing next week regarding a formal protest lodged in a closely contested State Senate race. The incumbent, Democrat Gerald Malloy, is challenging the election results against Republican J.D. Chaplin due to discrepancies found in the vote count from Lee County.
What Happened?
Gerald Malloy’s protest stems from a recount that was triggered by the narrow margins seen on election night. The initial tally showed a close race, prompting the recount which revealed 4,643 votes in Lee County—70 fewer votes than previously counted. Even more significant were the adjustments in the candidates’ tallies: Chaplin lost 129 votes while Malloy gained 59 votes. Despite this gain, Chaplin still leads by 87 votes.
Where and When?
The hearing is scheduled for December 3 at 10 a.m. in front of the South Carolina Election Commission. This commission will evaluate the dispute surrounding the election results in Lee County, where the vote discrepancies are solely being challenged.
Why the Discrepancies?
In a letter dated November 18, the election commission requested clarification from the Lee County Voter Registration and Elections Office regarding the discrepancies that surfaced during the recount. The county’s response indicated that these issues were primarily due to test ballots that had not been properly reset before counting on election night.
County Office’s Position
The Lee County Elections Office asserted, “The recount process in Lee County follows and adheres to the state and federal election laws established in the recount procedure.” Despite the confidence expressed in their processes, the shifts in vote counts raise questions as the commission seeks to establish clarity.
Future Implications
As the hearing progresses, officials may consider whether to mandate a new election if they find substantial evidence supporting Malloy’s claims. The length of the hearing could vary, as the commissioners will thoroughly review all evidence and testimony presented during the proceedings.
Understanding the Stakes
The outcome of this hearing could have far-reaching implications not just for the candidates involved but also for the residents of South Carolina’s District 29. The integrity of the electoral process remains paramount, and this dispute highlights the critical role recounts can play in ensuring accurate election results.
As the hearing date approaches, both candidates and their supporters are keenly awaiting developments. Observers are hopeful that the commission’s deliberations will shed light on the counting process and ultimately lead to a fair and justified outcome.
