A nonprofit government watchdog group, American Oversight, has filed a lawsuit against conservative appointed members of the Georgia State Election Board for holding an illegal meeting without proper public notice. The board, including members who question the legitimacy of President Joe Biden’s election win in Georgia, approved rules during the contested meeting on July 12. The watchdog group’s lawsuit prompted the board to rescind its earlier vote during a virtual meeting on Tuesday.
American Oversight has expressed concerns about the board’s actions, including pushing through changes that could intimidate election workers and favor certain candidates in the upcoming November elections. The group plans to closely monitor the board to ensure no further unlawful actions are taken behind closed doors. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the election board is on August 6.
The lawsuit alleges that the July 12 meeting did not meet the requirements for public notice and quorum, as one member appeared via video conference and the meeting was not live-streamed. The conservative board members defended the meeting, asserting that it was necessary to not delay progress until the next scheduled meeting.
American Oversight’s efforts come in the midst of ongoing controversy surrounding election integrity and transparency in Georgia, with tensions running high over the outcome of the 2020 presidential election. The lawsuit highlights the importance of accountability and adherence to state laws governing public meetings in safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process.
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