Former Maryland state elections board member arrested on Jan. 6 insurrection crimes

"It is concerning that he was allowed to be a part of the Board, but we are grateful that he will be held accountable for his crimes, even if it is three years later."

This article originally appeared in the AFRO News on January 16, 2024 and was written by Tashi McQueen.  

Morgan Drayton, policy and engagement manager of the Common Cause Maryland, released a statement on the matter. The Common Cause Maryland is a nonprofit organization that aims to strengthen democracy.

“It is sickening to think that Ayala was making decisions about our elections after allegedly participating in the attempted insurrection. His disrespect for the voices of Maryland voters and his disregard for the peaceful transfer of power stands in direct contrast to the duties of the Board of Elections. It is concerning that he was allowed to be a part of the Board, but we are grateful that he will be held accountable for his crimes, even if it is three years later,” said Drayton. “After the 2024 election, the General Assembly should seriously consider whether the process for selecting board members needs to be changed. This should be a wake-up call.”

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