September 19, 2024
ATLANTA (AP) — Georgia's State Election Board voted Tuesday to require county election officials to make a “reasonable inquiry” before certifying election results to the state.
Supporters say the measure is needed because members of county election boards must swear statements that results are accurate and need to be able to adequately assure themselves that the totals are correct before doing so.
“Why one would not want to assume there is some oversight?" asked State Election Board member Janice Johnston, who was appointed the panel by the state Republican Party. "It’s the duty of the board to provide some oversight, in a fair way, in a reasonable way.”
The rule will take effect after 20 days, although it could be challenged in court.
It's yet another battle over what had long been an administrative afterthought, state and local boards certifying the results. With 90 days left in the presidential campaign, there could be more fighting in narrowly divided swing states.
The rule the board adopted Tuesday was proposed by Michael Heekin, the other Republican-appointed member of the Fulton County board.
Heekin on Tuesday rebutted claims that reasonable is a subjective term, saying it has an established legal meaning.
“It’s guardrails to make the point that what we are doing is very important and it’s not to be taken lightly," Heekin told the state board.
Board member Janelle King denied that she's unduly influenced by her party. “I don’t make decisions based on what side of the aisle wants me to do something,” King told reporters. “I look at the facts, I look at the evidence, I look at what’s in front of me, and I see if this is a good rule.”
