Justice Riggs' victory in Supreme Court race certified for 8-year term

RALEIGH, N.C (WTVD) -- After a nearly six-month battle, Justice Allison Riggs has been certified as the 2024 North Carolina Supreme Court race winner.

Republican challenger Jefferson Griffin conceded last November's election on Wednesday to Riggs, two days after a federal judge ruled that thousands of disputed ballots must remain in the final tally.

In a statement provided by his campaign, Griffin said he would not appeal Monday's decision by U.S. District Judge Richard Myers, who also ordered that the State Board of Elections certify results that after two previous recounts, showed Riggs is the winner by 734 votes from over 5.5 million ballots cast in the race.

"While I do not fully agree with the District Court's analysis, I respect the court's holding - just as I have respected every judicial tribunal that has heard this case," Griffin said. "I will not appeal the court's decision."

Griffin's decision sets the stage for Riggs to be officially elected to an eight-year term as an associate justice in the nation's ninth-largest state.

"Voters should not have to fight tooth and nail to have their lawful votes counted. Disappointed politicians should not use courts to try and get a different election outcome," said Riggs, during prepared remarks she delivered following her swearing-in.

Riggs was sworn in Tuesday morning by Justice Anita Earls alongside North Carolina voters inside the Capitol building in Raleigh.

"Nearly $2 million spent, more than 68,000 voters' lawful votes put at risk, taxpayer time and resources wasted, and immeasurable damage done to our democracy. While I am forever inspired by the commitment of North Carolinians to protect our rights, it doesn't have to be this way," said Riggs.

"People just couldn't believe she won by that many votes and wasn't seated. It was a wake-up call for everyone at our church," added Viola Ryals Figueroa, who serves as Chairwoman for the Wayne County Democratic Party.

Riggs spoke for about six minutes before greeting and taking pictures with supporters.

"I will serve all North Carolinians, regardless of whether they voted for me. I will defend the rights of all North Carolinians, regardless of their political affiliation. I will uphold the rule of law and the Constitution without fear or favor. And I will always, always stand up for your rights and freedoms," said Riggs.

"It's been very difficult. Watching someone you love go through stress like this and unnecessarily. You know that this never should have happened. And I think everybody knows that," added Christine Riggs, her mother.

WATCH | Allison Riggs sworn in: Full Ceremony