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Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) is calling for an investigation into “widespread problems with the Harris County elections” in the Lone Star State, highlighting yet another case of election irregularities that reportedly took place during the 2022 midterms.
“The allegations of election improprieties in our state’s largest county may result from anything ranging from malfeasance to blatant criminal conduct,” Abbott stated on Twitter.
Harris County reportedly suffered from a slate of election-related problems on Nov. 8. According to Fox News, several polling places in Harris County did not open by 7:00 a.m. on Election Day, and in one location, a “misplaced key” allegedly delayed the use of the voting machines.
The outlet further reported that voting hours were reportedly extended in 782 polling locations in Harris County, although the Texas Supreme Court later contrasted that decision by ruling that votes cast after the deadline appointed by Texas Election Code be set aside.
In an official press statement, Abbott explained his motivation to call for an investigation:
“I’m calling on the Secretary of State, the Attorney General’s Office, and the Texas Rangers to initiate investigations into allegations of improprieties in the way that the 2022 elections were conducted in Harris County. The allegations of election improprieties in our state’s largest county may result from anything ranging from malfeasance to blatant criminal conduct. Voters in Harris County deserve to know what happened. Integrity in the election process is essential. To achieve that standard, a thorough investigation is warranted.”
Furthermore, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is no stranger to taking on the issue of election integrity. According to his office, Texas has prosecuted 534 election fraud offenses against 155 individuals. There are also 510 pending offenses against 43 defendants in Texas, as well as 386 active election fraud investigations.
