(DCWatchdog.com) – In an outrageous blow to the Republican Party, the Georgia Supreme Court has decided to reject an expedited GOP appeal, thus leaving key election rule changes invalid, and frustrating many who see these rules as crucial for transparency.
This ruling supports a previous decision by Judge Thomas Cox, who declared the rules illegal and unconstitutional for overstepping state election authority.
The decision by the Georgia Supreme Court effectively stalls Republican efforts to reinstate contested election rules.
These rules were deemed unconstitutional by Fulton County Superior Court Judge Thomas Cox, who found that the State Election Board exceeded its authority.
The Supreme Court’s refusal to expedite the case allows Cox’s ruling to stand during the appeal process, which may take months, reports The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
This development has been slammed by the GOP.
Some Republicans, including Georgia Republican Party Chairman Josh McKoon, have criticized the judicial system for its handling of the case.
McKoon and other GOP figures argue that the rules in question were essential to ensuring transparency and accountability during elections.
The rules included provisions like hand-counting ballots after polls close and requiring a “reasonable inquiry” before certifying results.
Fulton County Superior Court Judge Thomas Cox had previously declared the rules void, claiming they were beyond the State Election Board’s authorized reach.
The GOP’s attempt to quickly overturn this ruling failed as the Georgia Supreme Court chose to take its time with the appeal process.
State and national Republican entities hoped for a quicker resolution to effectuate the rules in time for upcoming elections, but now face the reality of a prolonged legal process.
Notably, former state Rep. Scot Turner, who leads Eternal Vigilance Action and sued to block these election rules, expressed relief.
Turner believes this decision prevents election workers from navigating last-minute changes, which could have introduced confusion and uncertainty.
Despite this win for some, others argue that these rules were designed to strengthen trust in Georgia’s election process.
On the other side of the aisle, Fair Fight—an organization founded by Democrat Stacey Abrams—applauded the court’s decision.
They see it as a victory for voters and the rule of law, ensuring elections proceed without disruption.
However, this political tug-of-war sheds light on ongoing tensions between parties regarding election integrity and oversight.
While the judicial process unfolds, the Georgia General Assembly might consider incorporating these rules into state law in their upcoming session.
This would provide another avenue for Republicans to achieve the election changes they deem necessary.
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