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Texas Supreme Court blocks Harris Co. mail-in ballot distribution
The Texas Supreme Court has blocked the Harris County Clerk from sending mail-in ballot applications to all registered voters.
AUSTIN - The Texas Supreme Court has blocked the Harris County Clerk from sending more than two million unsolicited mail-in ballot applications.
RELATED: Court rules Harris County Clerk can send out vote-by-mail applications
County Clerk Chris Hollins was planning to send the applications to all registered voters in Harris County.
The court entered its order in response to a filing made earlier on Tuesday by Attorney General Paxton.
MORE: Texas AG appealing state judge's decision regarding Harris Co. sending mail-in ballot applications
Paxton submitted the filing on behalf of the State of Texas seeking emergency relief to prevent Hollins from sending the applications before the State’s lawsuit against Hollins is resolved.
CLICK HERE TO SEE THE FULL ORDER
“I strongly commend the Texas Supreme Court for stopping the Harris County Clerk from sending millions of mail-in ballot applications, which would create voter confusion and jeopardize the integrity and security of our elections,” said Attorney General Paxton. “The Harris County Clerk knowingly chose to violate Texas election law and undermine election security. I thank the court for preventing the clerk from proceeding with his unlawful plans while this case continues.”
RELATED: Harris County recruits medical experts to advise voters on mail-in ballot
Clerk Hollins responded to the order with the following statement:
"My office works tirelessly to protect the right to vote for the people of Harris County and to promote safe methods for voters to cast their ballots during the ongoing global pandemic. With the November election less than fifty days out, it is disheartening to witness the Attorney General engage in childish antics rather than safeguard the voting rights of Texans, but I know the law is on our side.
Fortunately, all vote-by-mail applications have already been sent to Harris County voters aged 65 and above. My office is prepared to send applications and educational materials to remaining registered voters at the conclusion of this baseless litigation."