RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) – North Carolina’s governor has named a new state elections board chairman tasked with leading an investigation into alleged absentee ballot fraud and irregularities in a very close congressional race.
Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper told reporters Monday he would elevate Vice Chairman Joshua Malcolm to the top position, and appoint former board member Robert Cordle to fill the board’s vacant position.
“North Carolinians deserve to have confidence in our democratic process and as Chair, Joshua Malcom’s leadership and experience will help ensure fair and honest elections. Robert Cordle has a proven record of service on the State Board of Elections, putting aside party affiliation to hold elected leaders accountable. I appreciate their service to our state,” said Governor Cooper.
The previous chairman resigned over the weekend following complaints about comments he’s made online criticizing President Donald Trump.
Andy Penry resigned Saturday from the State Board of Elections and Ethics Enforcement. The Democrat said he was leaving the board because he did not want to undermine an ongoing probe of potential wrongdoing in the state’s 9th Congressional District.
Wake County GOP Chairman Charles Hellwig filed a complaint Wednesday and provided images of what appear to be tweets from Penry’s account this year criticizing Trump and a proposed constitutional amendment. Hellwig cited state law prohibiting board members from publicly opposing candidates and referendums.
The board last Friday voted to hold an evidentiary hearing this month about absentee ballots in the 9th Congressional District.
