The Story of Election Day 2004 in Ohio

Appearing with other member of the Congressional Black Caucus at the Democratic National Convention tonight for a moving tribute to their recently deceased colleague Stephanie Tubbs Jones, Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee John Conyers brings the issue of fair elections and election integrity to the convention.

Speaking after Charles Rangel of New York, Chairman Conyers said:

I knew Stephanie Tubbs Jones as a constant voice for justice and peace. She was known to others for her work as a prosecutor, a judge and chairwoman of the Ethics Committee of the House of Representatives. She was a stalwart Democrat, a real leader and an enthusiastic supporter of Hillary Rodham Clinton’s bid for the nomination.

After Senator Obama prevailed, the Congressional Black Caucus met with Senator Obama, and Stephanie Tubbs Jones led us in standing rock-solid in support of him as our candidate for president. She knew the importance of making sure that every vote counts and every vote is counted.

After the 2004 election when so many votes went uncounted in Ohio, Stephanie Tubbs Jones met with me and other House members in Columbus, Ohio to hear the testimony of hundreds of Ohioans angry at the way their secretary of state had misconducted the presidential election. She returned to Washington with one vow: “Never again.” Never again would we see justice left undone. Never again will votes go uncounted. Never again will the voice of the people be ignored.

Before leaving this convention, with Senator Obama nominated as our candidate, I ask that we honor the memory of Stephanie Tubbs Jones, and speak with one voice, as she would. “Never again. Never again. Never again.”