FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, February 23, 2022

Contact: Jack Kiraly, Executive Director
(703) 791-9132 | jack@fairfaxdemocrats.org

Fairfax Democrats Chair Releases Statement on Failed Recall of Laura Jane Cohen

Republican attempt to overturn 2019 election thwarted

FAIRFAX COUNTY – The Fairfax Circuit Court has officially dismissed the case brought forward by the Republican-affiliated Open FCPS Coalition that has attempted to overturn the 2019 election and remove School Board Member Laura Jane Cohen (Springfield) from office. In response to the dismissal, Fairfax County Democratic Committee Chair Bryan Graham has released the following statement:

“Today marks a victory for democracy and common sense. I am pleased that the Court agrees that differences of opinion are not cause for removal from office.

“COVID has created difficulties and challenges for all of us. Our School Board put the health and safety of students, staff, and families first. While Republican operatives have spread misinformation and lies about our School Board, they and the Board of Supervisors have led the Commonwealth in response to the ongoing pandemic.

“I applaud Judge Richard Gardiner and Special Prosecutor, Commonwealth’s Attorney D. Michael Caudill (R – Goochland Co.), for basing their decision to dismiss by looking at the facts of the case; of which, none support removal from office.

“I implore the Open FCPS Coalition to stop wasting the Court’s time and taxpayer money with these ridiculous petitions for removal. We must let Ms. Cohen and the School Board return to the business of ensuring our schools stay safe and open for all.”

The dismissal of this case marks the second of two failed attempts to remove democratically elected officials in Fairfax County. Both attempts were dismissed for lack of evidence. The Open FCPS Coalition is seeking one more removal petition, that of at-large School Board Member Abrar Omeish. It is expected that, should they reach the number of signatures required to move forward, this case will also be thrown out for lack of merit.

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