Former Alaska Rep. Gabrielle LeDoux’s election fraud retrial has been delayed yet again, as her legal team secured an additional extension on March 24, granted by Judge Kevin Saxby.
This delay of a trial-setting conference continues a pattern of postponements that have characterized the case since charges were first filed in 2020.
LeDoux, now 76, faces 12 charges, including five felonies, related to allegations that she encouraged people who did not reside in her district to vote for her during the 2014 and 2018 elections. She has maintained her innocence, pleading not guilty to all charges.
The trial has experienced multiple delays over the years. In July 2024, proceedings were postponed due to the late submission of new evidence by the prosecution. In November, the trial began but was further extended as jury deliberations continued beyond the Thanksgiving holiday. A mistrial was declared on Dec. 2.
Two of LeDoux’s associates, former campaign aide Lisa (Vaught) Simpson and Caden Vaught, entered plea agreements on misdemeanor charges and have apparently agreed to testify against her.
LeDoux was initially charged five years ago this month, after an extensive investigation that included the Federal Bureau of Investigation. LeDoux, who left office in January of 2021, had served in the Alaska Legislature from 2005-2008 and 2013-2021, when she lost to Rep. David Nelson.
