Experts Think Georgia Can Withstand Trump-Backed Conspiracies
Aug 29, 2024
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Sam Gringlas, a WABE reporter focused on Georgia politics, dives into the challenges of election integrity in a state still reeling from the aftermath of 2020. The discussion highlights the alarming changes in election regulations and the Democratic Party's lawsuit aiming to safeguard the electoral process. With conspiracy theories still looming, experts express confidence in legal frameworks to uphold vote counting. Gringlas also touches on strategies to enhance voter turnout as the 2024 elections approach amidst ongoing political tensions.
Georgia's recent changes to election certification rules have raised alarm over potential disruptions and the integrity of future elections.
Experts believe that the evolving nature of election certification challenges may create significant political tension leading up to the 2024 elections.
Deep dives
Georgia's Election Rules Under Scrutiny
Recent changes to Georgia's election certification rules have raised concerns among Democrats and election officials. Two new rules approved by the state election board redefine the certification process and introduce vague terms like 'reasonable inquiry' and 'justly compute.' These changes could lead to potential disruptions and confusion following election day, prompting a lawsuit from the Democratic Party and ethics complaints against three Republican board members. The implications of these rules are significant as they may empower local boards to reject certification based on unfounded claims, risking election integrity in a crucial swing state.
Historical Context of Election Certification
The certification process for elections has evolved significantly since 2020, shifting from a largely administrative task to one marked by political scrutiny and controversy. Previously seen as a mere formality, the role of local election boards has become a contentious battleground where individuals influenced by election denial narratives challenge valid results. Experts highlight that the local boards' authority is bounded by state law, which should typically prevent them from interfering in election disputes. As the 2024 elections approach, there is heightened concern about how many local boards may attempt to inject chaos into the process, echoing the struggles witnessed during previous elections.
Campaign Strategies and Voter Concerns
Both parties are actively campaigning in Georgia, focusing on voter turnout to mitigate challenges in election certification and integrity. Democrats are intensifying their efforts in areas beyond Metro Atlanta to boost margins, recognizing that a larger victory could reduce opportunities for future disputes. Meanwhile, indications of GOP support for dismissal of certification issues remain prevalent, even in light of Trump's 2020 election claims. The dual approach introduces a complicated dynamic as candidates must navigate the need for voter confidence alongside the risk of perpetuating election fraud myths.
Donald Trump unsuccessfully tried to pressure Georgia's political leadership to "find" him votes in the 2020 election, but election conspiracies he inspired and continues to encourage continue to play a big role this cycle.
Experts are confident the law and courts are strong enough to avoid a catastrophic outcome in the face of the threats, but the Harris campaign is hoping to win big enough that Trump's conspiracies won't matter.
This episode: White House correspondent Deepa Shivaram, voting correspondent Miles Parks, and WABE reporter Sam Gringlas.
The podcast is produced by Casey Morell and Kelli Wessinger. Our editor is Eric McDaniel. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.
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