Georgia GOP Appeals To State Supreme Court For Reinstatement Of Election Rules

The Georgia Republican Party and the Republican National Committee (RNC) are fighting to overturn a court ruling that blocked election rules designed to strengthen voting integrity in the state. The GOP has filed an appeal with the Georgia Supreme Court, seeking to reinstate these rules, which were struck down by a Fulton County judge.

Judge Thomas Cox ruled that the Georgia State Election Board overstepped its authority by implementing the changes, which included provisions such as hand-counting paper ballots and expanding poll watcher access. Cox argued that only the Georgia General Assembly has the power to make such changes.

RNC Chairman Michael Whatley strongly criticized the ruling, calling it “a blow to election integrity” and accusing the judge of judicial activism. Whatley emphasized the importance of the new rules in ensuring transparency and accountability in future elections.
The GOP’s emergency petition to the Georgia Supreme Court asks for the rules to be reinstated while the appeal is ongoing. A decision from the court is expected soon, with significant implications for the upcoming election.

These new rules were passed just weeks before the 2024 general election. Republicans argue that they are necessary to prevent election fraud and maintain public confidence, particularly in light of the controversy surrounding the 2020 election results in Georgia.