DOVER — After four grueling days of trial, during which more than 30 Dover voters were subpoenaed to testify, Superior Court Judge Stuart Minkowitz ruled that Carlos Valencia’s victory in the Democratic primary for Fourth Ward Alderman stands.
This July, Alderman Ronald Camacho filed a motion alleging that more than 26 votes in the Dover Fourth Ward primary were cast illegally in favor of Dover First Democratic candidate Carlos Valencia. Camacho and his attorneys requested that the judge overturn all of these votes.
On Tuesday, September 18, Judge Minkowitz allowed all but one of these votes to remain valid and solidified Valencia’s victory.
“Today’s ruling was a victory for all proponents of voting rights,” stated Morris County Democratic Chairman Chip Robinson. “I am proud to have supported a team of Dedicated Democrats in Dover First who will continue working to protect the rights of Dover voters.”
“For some first-time voters who were forced to miss days of work, losing necessary wages and risking termination, this trial might cause them to think twice before voting again,” stated Dover Democratic Chairman Edward Correa, “But these voters should have no fear going forward. Their voices matter, and the Dover Democrats will continue fighting to ensure that every voter’s voice is heard.”
