In a recent ruling by Fulton County Superior Court Judge Thomas Cox, seven new election rules passed by the State Election Board in Georgia have been declared “illegal, unconstitutional and void.” The invalidated rules include requirements for hand-counting ballots after polls close and certification processes for election results.
The State Election Board, controlled by three Republicans endorsed by former President Donald Trump, has faced multiple lawsuits over these rules from Democratic Party organizations, local election officials, and a group led by a former Republican state lawmaker. Concerns have been raised that the rules could potentially be used to delay or cast doubt on election results by Trump allies.
One of the rules blocked by a judge mandates three separate poll workers to hand-count Election Day ballots to ensure accuracy. Critics argue that this could slow result reporting and burden poll workers, while supporters claim it would only add extra minutes to the process.
Another invalidated rule pertains to the certification process, with one requiring a “reasonable inquiry” before certifying results and the other allowing examination of election-related documentation. Supporters argue that these rules are necessary to ensure accuracy, while critics fear they could be used to delay or deny certification.
Fulton County Superior Court Judge Robert McBurney temporarily blocked the hand-count rule for the upcoming November election, citing the need for further exploration of its legal implications. The State Election Board has the option to appeal the decision.
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