Georgia judge strikes down seven new election rules
SUMMARY
A Georgia judge, Thomas Cox Jr., has struck down seven election rules passed by the Republican-majority State Election Board, ruling them unconstitutional. The invalidated rules included requirements for "reasonable inquiry" before certifying election results, hand-counting ballots on election night, and increased access for partisan poll watchers. Cox determined that the board overstepped its authority, as only the General Assembly can establish election procedures. The lawsuit challenging these rules was brought by two Republicans, Scot Turner and James Hall, and supported by the state Democratic Party. Opponents argued that the rules would lead to chaos, while proponents claimed they were necessary for election security. The ruling comes amidst high early voter turnout in Georgia, a key battleground state for the 2024 election.
