The new Georgia rule that could cause election chaos
Sep 24, 2024
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Georgia has introduced a controversial new rule requiring precincts to conduct three separate hand counts before reporting vote totals. Supporters claim it enhances transparency, while critics argue it invites chaos and delays, risking public trust. Legal disputes loom as election officials voice concerns about practicality and potential counting errors. With these tensions building, the implications for the upcoming presidential contest could be significant.
A new Georgia rule mandates hand counting of votes, which proponents argue increases transparency but critics fear may lead to election chaos.
The Georgia State Election Board's conservative majority has raised concerns among officials about the legality and implications of the new voting procedures.
Deep dives
New Hand Counting Rule Sparks Controversy
A recent rule passed by Georgia's State Election Board mandates that all ballots be hand counted at the precinct level, either on election night or in the following days. Proponents argue that this increases transparency and uniformity in the election process, especially in light of the tight races expected. However, many election officials express concerns that implementing this rule is burdensome and could lead to chaos, as current resources are stretched thin. Critics warn that the rule could undermine trust in the election process, creating unnecessary delays and complications while counting the ballots.
Political Dynamics Influencing Election Rules
The composition of the Georgia State Election Board has shifted, with a conservative majority that strongly supports former President Trump influencing the recent rule changes. This group has been actively engaged in modifying election procedures, claiming they aim to ensure accuracy and transparency. However, the pushback from election officials suggests that these changes may be more about political control than improving the election integrity. Ongoing tensions highlight how these board decisions may impact public confidence in electoral outcomes.
Legal Challenges and Potential Outcomes
Legal challenges are anticipated regarding the new hand counting mandate, as there are concerns over its legality and implications for election results certification. The state attorney general's office has indicated that the board may be exceeding its authority, raising questions about the enforceability of the new rule. If litigation unfolds, it might delay the implementation of these changes, complicating the election process further. The potential for this dispute to escalate raises concerns about public trust and the possibility of unrest surrounding the election results.
Last Friday, Georgia’s state election board voted 3-2 to approve a new election rule: before vote totals can be reported, each precinct must confirm the total number of votes cast by three separate hand counts.
The move was spearheaded by a pro-Trump majority who say that it will make elections more transparent. But critics – among them many of Georgia’s election administrators – said hand counts would take too long, cost money and almost certainly produce counting errors, opening the door to doubts about the election results in November. The office of the Republican state attorney general, which is responsible for advising the board, wrote in an opinion that the change was unlawful.
This rule is the latest in a string of new election measures passed by the pro-Trump election board. Democracy advocates have accused the board of intentionally injecting chaos and uncertainty into the presidential contest.
Today on “Post Reports, host Elahe Izadi speaks with Amy Gardner, who covers voting for the Post, about how the rule change could affect the November election.
Today’s show was produced by Emma Talkoff, with help from Lucas Trevor. It was mixed by Sean Carter. And edited by Monica Campbell, with help from Reena Flores. Thanks to Griff Witte.