Written by: Sam Orlando
Legal Clash Could Determine Fate of Local Election Outcome
WAYNESBORO, VIRGINIA - A significant legal hearing is set to take place Tuesday at 1 p.m. in Waynesboro Circuit Court, as two lawsuits with opposing aims square off over whether the November 5 vote results in Waynesboro, Virginia, will be certified. The legal dispute, brought to the forefront by the two Republican members of the Waynesboro Electoral Board, Curt Lilly and Scott Mares, challenges the constitutionality of the anticipated vote count, pushing the city’s election proceedings into uncertain territory.
Republican Board Members Seek Halt on Certification
In a move that has captured local and statewide attention, Lilly and Mares filed their lawsuit on October 4, alleging that they would not support the certification of the election without a court directive. Their stance, they claim, is driven by constitutional concerns, though specifics have not been thoroughly detailed in public forums. This action has sparked widespread discussions on both sides of the political spectrum regarding electoral integrity and the role of local officials in upholding or contesting vote outcomes.
Waynesboro Voters Push Back with Countersuit
Adding to the stakes, a group of five Waynesboro residents filed a countersuit on October 22, urging the court to mandate certification before the November 15 deadline. With early voting turnout already at 4,327 votes, just shy of the 2020 election pace despite a quieter local election cycle, local residents argue that it’s crucial for the election to be certified promptly to respect voters’ rights and prevent potential disenfranchisement.
What’s at Stake: High Turnout and Local Seats in Play
In 2020, Waynesboro saw a record-breaking turnout of over 10,000 votes. Though the COVID-19 pandemic shifted much of that participation to early voting, this year’s cycle is trending similarly high, with over 4,000 votes already in. Importantly, the November 5 ballot includes three City Council seats—Ward A, Ward B, and an At-Large seat—adding to the stakes for local governance.
This cycle, three Republican candidates for City Council, each endorsed by City Vice Mayor and Republican Committee Chair Jim Wood, will challenge incumbent independents in each ward. Wood also nominated the two Electoral Board members who are now challenging the certification, raising questions about the underlying motivations for the suit.
Uncertain Future of Waynesboro’s Election Process
As both sides prepare for Tuesday’s hearing, the implications for Waynesboro’s election process and its voters loom large. Whether the court orders certification or allows the challenge to move forward could influence not only the city’s immediate election but also set a precedent in Virginia on the powers and limitations of local electoral boards.
With the hearing fast approaching, the outcome could cast a long shadow over Waynesboro’s political landscape and voter confidence in the democratic process.
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