In contrast, Republican officials argued that Griffin's challenges highlighted errors that threatened election integrity, reflecting the ongoing tensions within North Carolina's judicial system.

North Carolina Supreme Court Justice Allison Riggs was sworn in for an eight-year term on May 13, 2025, following a contentious election battle against Republican Jefferson Griffin, which she won by 734 votes out of over 5.5 million ballots cast.

Legal scholars suggest that while federal courts will likely resist attempts to change election rules retroactively, the potential for similar challenges remains, particularly in states with biased judicial systems.

The State Board of Elections confirmed Riggs' victory after a federal judge ruled against Griffin's attempts to challenge ballot eligibility, a move criticized by Riggs' Democratic supporters as an effort to undermine a fair election.

Analysts have characterized Griffin's case as potentially damaging to public trust in the judiciary, raising fears that it could lead to voters doubting the impartiality of the courts.

Upon her swearing-in, Riggs pledged to protect the voting rights of all North Carolinians and condemned attempts by politicians to use the courts to overturn election results.

This situation raises concerns about public perception of election integrity and judicial impartiality, especially as the state's election board is now under Republican control.

The environment created by former President Donald Trump has emboldened Republicans to challenge unfavorable election outcomes, which may lead to changes in North Carolina's election laws.

Experts warn that Griffin's legal tactics could set a dangerous precedent, encouraging future candidates to dispute election results, despite federal courts signaling resistance to such actions.

The State Board of Elections determined that missing data related to voter eligibility was likely due to clerical errors rather than misconduct, with most voters having provided the required ID.

Riggs' term on the North Carolina Supreme Court will last until late 2032, while Griffin continues to serve on the state Court of Appeals until his next election in 2028.

Griffin initially filed a lawsuit against the state elections board to expedite the turnover of election records but later withdrew it after facing unsuccessful challenges at various court levels.