The Georgia Republican Party is escalating its battle over election procedures in the state, vowing to sue Fulton County, a Democratic stronghold, over its decision to keep election offices open this weekend for voters to turn in absentee ballots. The move follows a record-breaking early voting period in Georgia, where turnout has already surpassed the 50% mark of active voters.
The GOP claims that Fulton County’s extended office hours violate state law, which stipulates that “all drop boxes shall be closed when the advance voting period ends.” They further argue that the chosen locations for these extended offices are strategically placed in areas that will favor Democratic candidates. “This is a blatant violation of Georgia law,” the Georgia GOP stated in a press release, highlighting their concern about the potential impact on the upcoming election.
Fulton County, which includes Atlanta, is considered a key battleground for Democrats in Georgia, a state that has become increasingly competitive in recent years. This legal threat comes as President Biden’s victory in Georgia in 2020 remains a focal point in the national political discourse, with Republicans making significant efforts to regain control of the state in the upcoming election.
However, Democrats have dismissed the GOP’s accusations as politically motivated, insisting that extending office hours is a common practice to accommodate voters and ensure accessibility. They also point out that this isn’t a unique situation to Fulton County, as multiple counties across the state have implemented similar measures.
This legal challenge follows a previous attempt by Republicans to force Fulton County to hire more Republican poll workers for Election Day. While a judge declined to issue an emergency order, the case is set to be further reviewed.
The contentious nature of the 2024 election in Georgia is evident in the ongoing debate surrounding election procedures. With early voting numbers exceeding previous records, the battle for control of the state intensifies, raising questions about the fairness and legitimacy of the electoral process. This latest legal challenge underscores the high stakes involved in the upcoming election, and the lengths both parties are willing to go to ensure their victory.
