The move gives the court time to consider a challenge by Republican Jefferson Griffin, who has cited debunked legal theories in his previous failed attempts to block Justice Allison Riggs’ reelection.

Democratic incumbent Justice Allison Riggs — who abstained from the decision because it involved her own election — won the statewide race against Republican Jefferson Griffin by a mere 734 votes. Two recounts have since confirmed that outcome, but Griffin continues to dispute the election, leveling Trumpian accusations that Riggs won due to fraud.

The North Carolina Supreme Court blocked state officials from certifying the re-election of Democrat Allison Riggs to the court, allowing Republican Jefferson Griffin to challenge the validity of nearly 60,