The RNC has filed a lawsuit against Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, claiming that the county illegally issued mail-in ballots before completing required testing. The lawsuit alleges that Montgomery County officials distributed ballots on September 17, violating Pennsylvania’s Election Code, which mandates that all counties complete logic and accuracy (L&A) testing prior to the election.
L&A testing ensures that voting systems, ballots, and other equipment are functioning correctly. Without this pre-election testing, errors in ballot design, layout, or machine configuration could go undetected, potentially undermining election integrity. The lawsuit demands that Montgomery County stop distributing ballots and segregate those already sent out for hand-counting.
Montgomery County Commissioner Neil Makhija has downplayed the lawsuit, dismissing it as an attempt to sow distrust in the election process. He took to social media to celebrate casting his ballot, stating, “I officially cast the first ballot in Montgomery County.” His actions have raised eyebrows, as the county had not completed L&A testing before sending out ballots.
The RNC’s legal action raises concerns about election integrity in a critical swing state like Pennsylvania. With less than two months before the general election, the timing of this dispute is significant, and the outcome could impact how Montgomery County proceeds with the voting process. The RNC insists that the county must follow the rules to ensure fair and accurate results.
As the lawsuit progresses, election officials in Montgomery County will need to address these allegations, particularly given the scrutiny that Pennsylvania’s elections have faced since 2020. The lawsuit highlights the importance of following proper election protocols to maintain public confidence in the voting system.
