The NAACP Legal Defense Fund, along with a private Alabama law firm, Quinn, Connor, Weaver, Davis & Rouco, has filed a lawsuit against the town of Newbern, Alabama, alleging decades-long violations of residents’ voting rights.
The lawsuit targets the town’s former mayor, Haywood “Woody” Stokes, and the all-white council board for allegedly manipulating the political process to maintain power.
At the center of the lawsuit is Patrick Braxton, a Black man who won the mayoral election in 2020 but was denied the opportunity to assume office due to the town’s failure to hold or publicize municipal elections as required by Alabama state law.
According to the lawsuit, Newbern has operated a “hand-me-down governance” system, effectively appointing almost exclusively white residents to key positions despite the town’s majority Black population.
The lawsuit argues that Newbern’s actions violate the U.S. Constitution and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 by denying residents their fundamental right to vote. It also highlights the town’s system of two mayors and the lack of awareness among residents about their voting rights.
Patrick Braxton expressed his hope for a resolution but stated his willingness to pursue legal action if necessary, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that residents’ voices are heard and votes are counted.
In a statement provided by the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, Braxton underscored the significance of voting in shaping the community’s direction and priorities, calling on the courts to enforce elections in Newbern.
Richard Rouco, a partner at the Alabama law firm, said it is utterly important for the courts to intervene to safeguard residents’ constitutional rights and ensure fair and full participation in the democratic process.
