The Republican Party of McLennan County formally lodged a complaint against gubernatorial candidate Robert “Beto” O’Rourke and his campaign for violating Texas Election Code.
Last week, O’Rourke held a campaign rally near Waco’s Elm Street voting center, where the McLennan County GOP was informed that O’Rourke’s PA system could be heard inside the building.
McLennan County Republican Party Chairman Bradford Holland stated they filed the complaint because they are fed up with Democrats’ disregard for the rules to keep elections fair.
“Election laws are made to protect us all and make the process fair, and it is appalling how the Democrats seem to have an utter disregard for the rules, time and time again,” Holland told Texas Scorecard. “We Republicans believe in the rule of law; and therefore, we filed a complaint with our county election administrator that day.”
Holland believes that O’Rourke will be found guilty for violating Texas Election Code 61.004, which states that a person commits an offense if, during voting hours and within 1,000 feet of a building in which a polling place is located, the person operates a sound amplification device for the purpose of making a political speech or electioneering for or against any candidate.
In a video posted on the county GOP’s Facebook, O’Rourke can be seen speaking into a microphone in front of a crowd. Another image shows that O’Rourke held a rally only 230 feet away from the polling location.
“We expect him to be found guilty, since even the Democrat Party hasn’t disputed the facts of the case. Beto has a long rap sheet of convictions already, and we look forward to adding this to his list of committed crimes.”
With much anticipation surrounding the gubernatorial race, McLennan County Republicans remain positive that citizens will show up and support Gov. Greg Abbott.
“Waco and McLennan County are RED and solidly behind Gov. Abbott. While Beto only had about 50 people at his rally that day, we expect hundreds to show up to Gov. Abbott’s rally on Thursday,” said Holland.
