Henry Whitehorn (left) John Nickelson (right)
A ruling is not expected until next week in Caddo Parish Sheriff candidate John Nickelson’s lawsuit challenging the result of the November election. Nickelson lost by one vote, to Henry Whitehorn. Political analyst Scott Hughes says Nickelson’s attorneys presented the judge with some compelling evidence.
“They put into evidence at least two ballots that clearly as acknowledged by the Secretary of State’s double voted and they put into evidence seven to nine ballots that seemed not to be in proper form,” said Hughes.
Retired Louisiana Supreme Court Justice Joseph Bleich is hearing the case. He’s asked the attorneys for both candidates to provide more written evidence. Hughes says Whitehorn believes he’s the undisputed winner, but Nickelson’s attorneys believe they’ve uncovered some questionable ballots.
“Judge has to be able to determine beyond unreasonable doubt who won, with a one vote margin, and maybe a dozen votes that seem to be undisputed, it’s going to present a challenge for the judge to say that he can clearly determine the winner,” said Hughes.
Retiring sheriff Steve Prator’s term does not end until June 30th. Hughes says if Judge Bleich rules another election should take place, it would occur in March.
“So if there’s a new election called, he’s already said it would be March 23rd, which is the Presidential Primary in Louisiana,” said Hughes.
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