California City Council Candidate Faces Felony Charges Over Election Fraud Allegations
Scott Edward Markowitz's Alleged Falsification of Nomination Paperwork
Scott Edward Markowitz, a candidate for the Fullerton City Council in Orange County, California, is facing felony perjury charges. The charges stem from allegations that he falsified his nomination paperwork. The Orange County District Attorney’s Office has stated that Markowitz claimed to have personally collected all the signatures required to qualify for the Fullerton City Council election, scheduled for November 5.
Consequences of the Alleged Fraud
Despite the fact that ballots have already been printed with Markowitz's name as a candidate for Fullerton’s Ward 4, located in the city’s southwest, the alleged falsification of his nomination paperwork could disqualify him from serving on the Fullerton City Council if he were to be elected. If Markowitz were to win the election, the city would have to bear the cost of a special election to choose one of the other three candidates vying for the seat.
Details of the Alleged Fraud
Like all city council candidates, Markowitz was required to submit a signed attestation, under penalty of perjury, affirming that he was the one who collected the signatures to qualify as a candidate for elected office. Markowitz did sign this attestation, but it is alleged that he did not personally collect the signatures.
Arrest and Potential Penalties
Markowitz was arrested by Orange County investigators on a Monday night. He was charged with one felony count of perjury by declaration and one felony count of record of forged or false instrument, and was booked into the Santa Ana city jail. If convicted on both counts, Markowitz could face a maximum sentence of three years and eight months in state prison.
Invalidation of Signatures
On August 9, 2024, Markowitz signed a document stating that he had collected 30 nomination signatures on his candidate nomination paperwork. However, the individual who signs such paperwork must also have witnessed the signatures. Several individuals who signed the paperwork have stated that Markowitz did not handle the paperwork, despite his claim to the contrary. As a result, these signatures are considered invalid.
Impact on Democracy
Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer emphasized the importance of integrity in the electoral process, stating, “Voters must have total confidence that every election is being carried out in a fair and unbiased manner. Interference in the electoral process in any manner and at any stage jeopardizes the will of the people being carried out while eroding the trust of voters that their vote counts.”
Other Candidates in the Race
Should Markowitz be elected despite his arrest, the other three candidates in the Ward 4 election, Linda Whitaker, Jamie Valencia, and Vivian Jaramillo, would compete in a special election. Neither Markowitz nor the District Attorney’s Office responded immediately to requests for comment.
Bottom Line
This case serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity and honesty in the electoral process. Any form of interference or dishonesty can undermine the public's trust in the system and potentially disrupt the democratic process. What are your thoughts on this matter? Feel free to share this article with your friends. Remember, you can sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.
