A federal appeals court has overturned the conviction of Douglass Mackey, a right-wing social media figure who was sentenced to prison for posting misleading memes ahead of the 2016 election.
On Wednesday, the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the government failed to prove Mackey conspired with others to suppress Democratic votes. The court ordered an acquittal, writing that evidence of Mackey coordinating with others was “insufficient.”
BREAKING: THE SECOND CIRCUIT COURT OF APPEALS HAS THROWN OUT MY CONVICTION FOR LACK OF EVIDENCE
— Douglass Mackey (@DougMackeyCase) July 9, 2025
THE CASE HAS BEEN REMANDED TO THE DISTRICT COURT WITH ORDERS TO IMMEDIATELY DISMISS
HALLELUJAH!
Mackey, 36, known online as “Ricky Vaughn,” was convicted in 2023 for posting memes claiming Hillary Clinton supporters could vote via text. About 5,000 people reportedly attempted to do so.
“There was no evidence at trial that Mackey’s tweets tricked anyone into failing properly to vote,” the court said.
Mackey celebrated the ruling on X, thanking supporters and promising legal action.
The Justice Department declined comment.
