Tamarac Commissioner Morey Wright Jr. has asked a Broward County judge to temporarily block notices telling voters he is disqualified from the Nov. 3 election while he appeals that ruling.
The motion for a stay pending appeal was filed Thursday in Broward County Circuit Court. It asks Judge Michael A. Robinson to suspend requirements that election officials notify voters, and it is aimed at the judge’s Wednesday ruling. Robinson found that Wright failed to meet mandatory candidate qualifying requirements involving his campaign paperwork, following a lawsuit filed by his opponent, former Commissioner Mike Gelin.
Under the order, the Broward Supervisor of Elections must mail notices to vote-by-mail voters and post signs at early voting sites and polling places saying votes for Wright will not count. Wright’s attorney, Joseph Geller, said his client would suffer irreparable harm if those notices go out. He argued that voters discouraged by the warnings could not be won back even if Wright wins on appeal.
Robinson disqualified Wright after finding that his June 12 campaign treasurer appointment form was missing bank-depository information and a required signature. The judge also found Wright had not properly appointed himself deputy campaign treasurer before he signed the $1,192.77 qualifying fee check. Geller disputed that reading and said Gelin waited until September to challenge paperwork problems that were visible in June.
Geller told Tamarac Talk he planned to file a notice of appeal and a request for expedited review in the Fourth District Court of Appeal, both expected Friday. Early voting in Broward County begins Monday, Oct. 19, which leaves little time before any notices could be posted. Wright’s name remains on the ballot. Gelin did not respond to a request for comment.
