In August 2018, a Smartmatic representative showcased the company’s voting system to the Secure, Accessible & Fair Elections Commission in Georgia. This technology company was at the center of false fraud claims surrounding the 2020 presidential election and recently settled a defamation lawsuit against conservative news outlet One America News Network on April 16, 2024. The settlement is part of a broader legal effort by voting equipment companies that were targeted by baseless conspiracy theories inaccurately accusing them of changing votes to impact the election outcome, specifically claiming they were involved in preventing former President Donald Trump’s reelection.
Smartmatic, a Florida-based company, used their voting technology only in one location – Los Angeles County, which is known as a Democratic stronghold within a state that was not a key battleground state during the presidential election. The uproar and misinformation surrounding their involvement in the election prompted legal action to address the false accusations made against them. The resolution of this defamation lawsuit marks a step towards clearing the company’s name and reputation from baseless allegations that emerged in the aftermath of the election.
One America News Network chose not to comment on the settlement or provide any further statements on the matter. This legal development is part of a larger trend where voting technology companies are seeking legal recourse to address the false narratives and conspiracy theories that have circulated following the 2020 election. As these companies continue to fight back against these baseless claims, it is important for voters to remain vigilant and demand transparency and accountability in our electoral processes.