The MeidasTouch Podcast: Major Update on NC Supreme Court Seat from Justice Allison Riggs

Release Date: April 21, 2025

In this compelling episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast, hosts Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas delve deep into the contentious North Carolina Supreme Court race, focusing on the pivotal role of Justice Allison Riggs. The episode offers listeners an in-depth analysis of the political maneuvering surrounding the election, the legal battles ensuing from contested votes, and the broader implications for democracy in the United States.

1. Introduction to the NC Supreme Court Race

The episode kicks off with Ben providing a succinct overview of the North Carolina Supreme Court race, highlighting the intense competition between Justice Allison Riggs, a pro-democracy Democratic judge, and Jefferson Griffin, a MAGA Republican and Court of Appeals judge. Ben outlines the election's trajectory, noting that Riggs secured victory after two decisive recounts, despite Griffin's relentless legal challenges.

Notable Quote:

Ben (00:01): "Justice Riggs, pro democracy Democratic judge running as a Democrat, won. She beat Jefferson Griffin, the MAGA Republican."

2. Jefferson Griffin’s Legal Maneuvers

Ben elaborates on Griffin's refusal to concede defeat, emphasizing his strategic approach to contesting the election results. Griffin initiated lawsuits aiming to invalidate a significant number of votes—originally 65,000—though the Supreme Court recently limited this to approximately 1,675 military votes.

Notable Quote:

Ben (02:58): "Jefferson Griffin wanted to throw out 65,000 votes... Somewhere in the range of 1600 or 1,675 votes that are now subject to the Supreme Court's ruling."

3. Justice Allison Riggs' Perspective

To provide firsthand insight, the podcast features an interview with Justice Allison Riggs, who addresses the ongoing legal challenges and their implications for electoral integrity. Riggs underscores the dangers of allowing post-election legal battles to undermine democratic processes.

Notable Quotes:

Justice Allison Riggs (02:58): "This sets a precedent that could be used anywhere in this country... If a candidate or a party is disappointed with who wins, they can look at the election laws and try to change the outcome of an election."

Justice Allison Riggs (06:52): "Election denialism and misinformation have done immense damage to trust in our election systems."

4. The Threat to Democracy

The discussion shifts to the broader ramifications of Griffin's actions, with Ben expressing concerns that such tactics could become a nationwide playbook for undermining election results. He warns that selective challenges in Democratic-leaning areas signal a troubling trend that could erode voter trust and democratic norms.

Notable Quote:

Ben (05:16): "This is a playbook I think we're going to be seeing across the country and needs to be taken seriously."

5. The Legal and Social Implications

Justice Riggs reflects on her background as an election lawyer, drawing parallels to previous attempts to delegitimize election outcomes. She highlights the personal toll on election officials and the fundamental right to vote, emphasizing that even a single disenfranchised vote is unacceptable.

Notable Quotes:

Justice Allison Riggs (06:52): "People are being threatened, had their lives threatened. I don't want voters or even national viewers to think... They decided on election day, voters cast their ballot, then they decided."

Justice Allison Riggs (06:52): "If we start this and I end up winning, you still have this precedent of they got away with it."

6. Calls to Action and Community Engagement

Towards the episode's conclusion, Justice Riggs urges listeners to support her fight for election integrity. She directs them to her website, rigsforourcourts.com, encouraging them to search for impacted voters, sign up for updates, follow her on social media, and contribute financially to bolster the legal battle.

Notable Quote:

Justice Allison Riggs (10:50): "I need support in both the legal battle and the organizing battle because we're doing this dual track. We're preparing for all eventualities."

7. Emphasizing the Importance of the Issue

Ben underscores the episode's significance, advocating for greater media attention on the integrity of elections. He praises Justice Riggs for her unwavering commitment to ensuring every vote counts and reinforces the podcast's role in spotlighting crucial democratic issues.

Notable Quotes:

Ben (12:13): "This is one of those stories that should be getting more attention than it is. It's at the heart of our democracy."

Ben (12:13): "Thanks for all you're doing, fighting for real election integrity and making sure every vote really counts."

Conclusion

This episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast serves as a critical examination of the fragile state of electoral processes in the United States. Through insightful dialogue and expert commentary from Justice Allison Riggs, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of the challenges facing democracy today. The Meiselas brothers effectively blend serious political discourse with their signature banter, making complex issues accessible and engaging for their audience. As the podcast emphasizes the necessity of vigilance and active participation in safeguarding democratic institutions, it stands as a vital resource for anyone concerned about the future of elections in America.

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