Trial in recount dispute to start in two weeks

[Freddie Stubbs]

Web Posted: 04/30/2004 12:00 AM CDT

Guillermo X. Garcia
Express-News Austin Bureau

AUSTIN — U.S. Rep. Ciro Rodriguez's legal challenge to overturn a controversial recount that propelled former state lawmaker Henry Cuellar to the Democratic nomination will go to trial within two weeks in Laredo, a judge ruled here Thursday.

As both sides laid out parts of their strategies in pretrial arguments, visiting District Court Judge Joe Hart said he wants the trial to start in Webb County on May 10 or 11, depending on courtroom availability.

Hart said he would rule on various motions, including Cuellar's petition that the case be dismissed, at a hearing in Laredo on Tuesday.

Three-term incumbent Rodriguez, D-San Antonio, is challenging the 203-vote victory that Cuellar eked out in a recount of the more than 48,000 votes cast in the March 9 primary. He is seeking a court ruling to nullify Cuellar's victory and order a new election.

more: http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/metro/stories/MYSA30.01B.recount_suit_0430.7b613334.html

[sonias]

1. I hope that Ciro Rodriguez and his lawyers can blow this case

wide open and prove the fraud. I think it's high time that this kind of fraud end on all sides. Stop voter fraud on any level. And if they can prove Cuellar cheated, he should be charged with the crime and kicked out of the Democratic party. Let the repukes welcome another crook to their party.

May the truth force be with you, Ciro.

Sonia