Georgia judge blocks hand-counting of ballots, another blow to the state’s GOP election officials

Topline

A judge in Georgia late Tuesday blocked a new rule requiring a hand count of ballots on election night, dealing another blow to Republican election officials in the state – many of whom incorrectly blame voter fraud for Donald Trump’s loss in the state in 2020 Hours after the same judge issued another ruling requiring local officials to certify the election results.

Important facts

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Crucial quote

“The administrative chaos that will – and does not have to – ensue is in complete contradiction to the obligations of our electoral boards (and the SEB) to ensure that our elections are fair, lawful and orderly,” McBurney wrote in his ruling.

How did the Democrats react to the ruling?

The Harris campaign and other Democratic groups issued a joint statement welcoming Tuesday’s ruling: “From the beginning, this rule was an attempt to delay the election results in order to sow doubt about the outcome, and our democracy is grateful.” This decision to block it is stronger.” Democratic elections lawyer Marc Elias said on X that the ruling was the “second victory today against election subversion in Georgia!”

Further reading

Judge thwarts Republican election officials in Georgia – says board must certify vote count (Forbes)

Could Georgia’s new rules impact the 2024 election? Here’s what you should know as Democrats challenge her in court: (Forbes)