The Republican National Committee (RNC) and Georgia GOP are seeking a reversal of a recent court ruling that blocked new election rules aimed at improving transparency and security. The rules, which were struck down by Judge Thomas Cox, included hand-counting paper ballots on election night and expanding poll watcher access.
The Georgia State Election Board introduced these rules in September, but Cox ruled that the board exceeded its authority, arguing that such changes must be enacted by the state legislature. RNC Chairman Michael Whatley criticized the ruling, calling it an attack on election integrity and saying the appeal is necessary to ensure that “commonsense rules are in place.”
On Oct. 19, GOP leaders asked the Georgia Supreme Court to reinstate the rules while the appeal is considered. The court is expected to issue a decision soon.
The rules were intended to prevent election fraud and maintain trust in the electoral process. Republicans argue that these safeguards are particularly important in Georgia, a state that has been at the center of election disputes since the 2020 presidential race.
The outcome of this case could have major implications for the 2024 election and how future election laws are crafted and enforced in Georgia.