On Monday, Democrats, supported by Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign, filed a lawsuit to block new election rules in Georgia that they argue could create post-election disorder in the crucial battleground state. The lawsuit, lodged in Georgia state court by the Democratic National Committee, the Georgia Democratic Party, and several county election board members, challenges two recent rules enacted by the Georgia State Election Board. These rules allow for ‘reasonable inquiries’ before certifying election results and authorize county election board members to investigate ballot counts. This legal action escalates a growing controversy involving three Republican state election board members, who have received praise from former President Donald Trump for their actions.
In the 2020 election, Donald Trump lost Georgia by just over 10,000 votes, a result that became the focal point of his unsuccessful efforts to overturn the election through claims of voter fraud, despite no evidence supporting these claims.
Now, Democrats are seeking judicial clarification to ensure that election superintendents cannot delay or refuse to certify the results of the November 5, 2024 election. They want the court to rule that, unless a valid judicial order dictates otherwise, election superintendents must certify the results by 5:00 P.M. on November 12, 2024.
The lawsuit argues that Georgia law traditionally treats election certification as a non-discretionary duty. If election officials have concerns about irregularities, they can raise these issues during the certification process, but they cannot use them as a reason to delay or withhold certification. Certification is a crucial final step in confirming voting results, which must be verified with the secretary of state’s office.
Recent developments have heightened concerns over the state election board’s actions. The five-member board typically handles routine election duties, but recent partisan appointees have been accused of overstepping their authority. Three new Republican members, appointed this year, have come under scrutiny following mentions by former President Trump, who has criticized the board’s handling of election matters.
Democrats and voting rights advocates are calling for an investigation into the Republican board members, urging GOP Governor Brian Kemp to look into the matter. Last week, Democratic state Senator Nabilah Islam Parkes filed an ethics complaint, alleging that board members Janelle King, Rick Jeffares, and Dr. Janice Johnston violated state law by pushing through the new rules so close to the election.
“This is about protecting all voters,” said GOP board member Janelle King. “I am making sure I am doing the right thing. I am appreciative of the president’s support, but I am not working on behalf of anyone.”
The situation continues to evolve as both sides prepare for the upcoming election.
