Georgia’s State Election Board has voted to approve a new rule requiring poll workers to count paper ballots by hand after voting is completed. This decision has sparked criticism and concerns about delayed election night results. The board’s move goes against advice from state officials and comes amidst controversy over new rules proposed by Trump allies. Democrats fear chaos and erosion of public confidence if former President Trump and his supporters contest the results in November.
The rule, which requires hand counting of ballots at precincts, has faced legal challenges and objections from Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger. Proponents argue that the rule ensures accuracy and integrity in tallying votes. Critics, including county election officials, warn of delays and added burden on poll workers. Some worry about the impact on public trust in the election process.
The rule mandates three separate poll workers count ballots in piles of 50 at each polling place. Results could be delayed if polling places wait to send memory cards recording votes until hand tallies are completed. Despite concerns, board members stress the importance of accuracy over speed in reporting election results.
Some states, like Illinois, already count ballots by hand without issues. The U.S. Election Assistance Commission guidelines emphasize balancing the total number of ballots cast with voters processed. The board also deferred a similar rule for early voting locations until 2025.
The decision to approve the hand counting rule reflects ongoing tensions over election regulations as the November election approaches. Critics argue that poorly written or inefficient rules could undermine the democratic process.
Source
Photo credit www.pbs.org