FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — Former Kentucky Secretary of State Alison Lundergan Grimes has been cleared of ethics charges stemming from allegations that the one-time Democratic rising star abused her access to voter registration data to benefit herself and fellow Democrats.
Franklin County Circuit Judge Phillip Shepherd ruled Monday that Grimes legally accessed the data while “acting in the scope of her public duties” as secretary of state.
“It is unclear how the commission can penalize the commonwealth’s chief election official for having access to voter data, or downloading it to a flash drive when it has failed to identify any illegal or unethical use of such data,” Shepherd said in his order.
Grimes had faced a $10,000 fine after the state Executive Branch Ethics Commission said that she committed ethics violations by improperly ordering the downloading and distribution of voter registration data. The judge’s reversal of the commission’s order means Grimes won’t have to pay the fine.
Should you claim child benefit? What it's worth
US President Joe Biden hits back at special counsel over secret files probe
Nato says Trump comments 'undermine all of our security'
The biggest holiday price hikes of the past 50 years revealed by Which?
Tourism boosts China's social, economic development
Nature's the star at The Datai resort in Malaysia. But... beware the monkeys raiding the minibar!
Holiday firm On The Beach takes to social media to fire back at 'abusive, snobby and fat
First look: MailOnline tries out British Airways' brand
Culture festival showcases integration
Is this the world's best airport? Face recognition check
Ricky Stenhouse punching Kyle Busch could lead to suspension
US President Joe Biden hits back at special counsel over secret files probe