National and Georgia state Democrats have taken legal action to challenge a new rule adopted by the Georgia State Election Board that would require hand counting of ballots in the upcoming November election. The rule, approved by a newly appointed pro-Trump majority on the board, mandates that ballots be counted by hand after they have been tallied by machines. This process involves trios of precinct poll managers and poll officers unsealing ballot boxes and individually counting the ballots to ensure accuracy.
The Democratic National Committee and Democratic Party of Georgia filed a complaint stating that the rule violates Georgia law on multiple grounds. They argue that the hand counting requirement could introduce uncertainty into the vote tallying process and potentially delay the certification of election results in the state. In response, they have requested a Georgia court to swiftly block the implementation of the rule before it impacts the general election.
Vice President Kamala Harris’ principal deputy campaign manager, Quentin Fulks, emphasized that some top Georgia Republican officials, including Attorney General Chris Carr and Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, have expressed opposition to the new rule. Fulks echoed their sentiments, labeling the rule as unproductive and unlawful. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that Georgia voters can cast their ballots with confidence in a free and fair election.
The lawsuit filed by Democrats aims to challenge the validity of the hand counting rule and prevent its enforcement. They argue that the rule could create chaos, confusion, and uncertainty in the election process. The lawsuit also highlights concerns raised by experts and non-partisan officials in Georgia regarding the potential negative impact of the rule on election integrity.
During a meeting where the hand counting rule was passed, several individuals expressed reservations about its implications. Kristin Nabers, the state director for the nonpartisan organization All Voting is Local, raised concerns about the potential for errors in calculating results and the challenges it would pose for poll workers. She highlighted the likelihood of small errors occurring during the hand counting process, which could lead to the need for recounts.
Barbara Gooby, a poll manager from Chatham County, also voiced apprehensions about the rule, warning that it could create opportunities for chaos, error, and voter insecurity. These concerns were echoed by Rep. Nikema Williams, the chair of the Democratic Party of Georgia, who criticized the involvement of three election board members who have questioned the integrity of the 2020 election results.
The lawsuit filed by Democrats is part of ongoing legal challenges against the Georgia State Election Board. Another lawsuit, scheduled for a bench trial, addresses two additional rules passed by the board earlier in the year. These rules, passed on 3-2 votes, aim to enable local county boards to conduct inquiries before certifying election results and to examine election-related documentation to ensure accuracy.
The legal challenges against the Georgia State Election Board come amidst a backdrop of political turmoil and controversy surrounding the 2020 election results. Former President Donald Trump and his associates have faced legal scrutiny for their efforts to overturn the election, with some charges being dropped in recent months. The ongoing legal battles reflect the deep divisions and challenges facing the electoral process in Georgia and the broader political landscape.
Supporters of the hand counting rule argue that it will enhance transparency and public trust in elections. However, opponents raise concerns about the potential for errors, delays, and confusion in the vote tallying process. The outcome of the legal challenges against the rule will have significant implications for the upcoming November election in Georgia and the broader debate over election integrity and security.
