Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has filed a lawsuit against North Carolina’s board of elections, challenging their decision to keep his name on the ballot despite his request for removal. The lawsuit, filed on Friday in Wake County Superior Court, claims that the board’s refusal violates Kennedy’s free speech rights by forcing him to remain a candidate in the pivotal swing state.

The legal challenge comes after a 3-2 vote by the North Carolina elections board, which has a Democratic majority. Kennedy’s legal team argues that the board’s decision to deny his request is both unconstitutional and unnecessary, causing him irreparable harm.

Karen Brinson, the executive director of the North Carolina State Board of Elections, defended the board’s decision, citing logistical challenges. Brinson noted that the state had already printed 1.73 million ballots across more than 60 counties, and special ballots had been prepared for overseas military members and disabled voters, making it impractical to remove Kennedy’s name at this stage.

Kennedy, who suspended his presidential campaign on August 23 and endorsed President Donald Trump, had planned to remain on ballots in states that are not expected to be competitive while removing his name from those that are. However, his efforts have been stymied in key states like Michigan and Wisconsin, in addition to North Carolina.

Polling data shows that Kennedy’s inclusion on the ballot could significantly affect the race in North Carolina. In a direct contest between President Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, both are tied at 48.1%. However, with Kennedy’s name added, Trump’s support drops to 43.5%, giving Harris a slight advantage at 48.8%.

Kennedy’s lawsuit underscores the ongoing legal and political battles surrounding ballot access and candidate rights in key swing states. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for the 2024 presidential election, particularly in North Carolina, where the race remains highly competitive.