Georgia Supreme Court Unanimously Blocks GOP's Election Rules, Upholds Ban Before November 5 Vote

Oct 22, 2024, 09:24 PM

The Georgia Supreme Court unanimously rejected an emergency appeal from the Republican Party to reinstate proposed election rules before the upcoming presidential election on November 5. The court declined to expedite the appeal, effectively preventing the rules, which were previously struck down by a lower court, from taking effect on Election Day. The challenged regulations, promulgated by the pro-Trump State Election Board, included requirements for hand-counting ballots, expanded access for poll watchers, video surveillance of drop boxes, a "reasonable inquiry" before certifying election results, and authorizing counties to withhold certification if fraud exists. The lower court had found these rules to be "illegal, unconstitutional, and void," and that they would "create chaos for election workers." The Supreme Court's decision maintains the block on these rules, marking a significant setback for the Republican-backed efforts to change Georgia's election procedures ahead of the November contest, and a victory for voters.