The Attorney General of Nevada is discreetly probing Republican activists who falsely pledged the state’s electoral votes to Donald Trump in the 2020 election, despite Joe Biden’s victory. This investigation, not previously reported, indicates potential legal consequences for those who posed as electors. Similar cases in other states, such as Michigan and Georgia, have already led to criminal charges.
False Electors in Nevada:
Six Republicans in Nevada, including state GOP chair Michael McDonald, signed fake certificates on December 14, 2020, falsely presenting themselves as the state’s Electoral College representatives. These false electors were utilized by Trump and his allies in an attempt to block Congress’ certification of the election results on January 6, 2021.
Ongoing Investigation:
The Nevada Attorney General, Aaron Ford, a Democrat, is actively investigating the actions of these false electors. Witnesses have been questioned about attempts to portray themselves as legitimate representatives, and details about documents prepared for this effort have been scrutinized.
Mixed Messages from Attorney General:
Ford had previously suggested in May that criminal charges were unlikely due to the absence of direct statutes addressing the conduct. However, in September, he indicated a shift in stance, stating that he had never ruled out prosecution. The current status of the investigation and whether indictments will be sought remain unclear.
Connection to Trump Campaign:
One of the false electors, Jim DeGraffenreid, communicated with Kenneth Chesebro, a lawyer working with the Trump campaign and a key figure in the fake elector scheme. Chesebro recently pleaded guilty in Georgia to a felony count related to the scheme.
National Implications:
The Nevada investigation is part of a broader effort to address false electors across the United States. Similar probes are underway in states like Michigan, Georgia, and Arizona, highlighting the legal challenges faced by those who sought to undermine the election results.
Conclusion:
As Nevada’s Attorney General pursues an investigation into false electors, legal consequences may unfold for those involved in attempting to sway electoral votes. This case reflects a nationwide effort to address fraudulent activities surrounding the 2020 election.
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