Georgia is Back in Play, But Voting Rules Have Changed

Written by Jack Hassard

On August 15, 2024

2024 Georgia Presidential Election: A Turning Point

Explore the pivotal moments and key players shaping the 2024 presidential race in Georgia. Discover how Kamala Harris’s campaign energizes voters and challenges the status quo.

The 2024 Georgia vote will be challenging. Voting laws have changed, making it more difficult for some people to vote and easier for others to question your eligibility to vote. I also am concerned about the Georgia State Election Board’s partisan behavior.  Remember, they are the ones that certify our election. 

The Battle for Georgia

Join the Movement

Be part of the change. Support Kamala Harris and Tim Walz in their historic campaign to win Georgia.

Key Features of Georgia's Political Landscape

Voter Enthusiasm

Kamala Harris’s campaign has ignited unprecedented enthusiasm among Georgia voters, with record-breaking rally attendance and volunteer sign-ups.

Voting Challenges

New laws have made it more difficult to vote, reducing polling locations and complicating mail-in voting procedures.

Credential Challenges

Citizens can now challenge the voting credentials of others, potentially disenfranchising many eligible voters.

Election Integrity

Concerns rise as some election officials continue to deny the legitimacy of the 2020 election, despite evidence to the contrary.

Partisan Oversight

The State Elections Commission’s partisan behavior raises questions about the fairness and integrity of the election certification process.

Historic Campaign

Kamala Harris’s run for president marks a historic moment, with the potential to reshape Georgia’s political future.

Voting Laws and Election Integrity in Georgia

Understanding the recent changes in Georgia’s voting laws and how they impact election integrity is crucial for every voter. Here are some common questions and answers to help you navigate the process.

What are the new voting laws in Georgia?

Georgia has implemented several new voting laws, including reducing the number of polling locations, stricter ID requirements for absentee voting, and allowing citizens to challenge the voting credentials of others.

Voting rights are on trial in Georgia. Voter repression has been a key part of the Republican effort to keep people away from the ballot box. Changing voting maps and writing incessant numbers of election laws have permitted voter suppression to contine.

How do the new laws affect absentee voting?
The new laws make absentee voting more difficult by requiring a valid ID and limiting the time frame in which voters can request and return absentee ballots.
Can someone challenge my right to vote?

Yes, under the new laws, any Georgia citizen can challenge the voting credentials of an unlimited number of voters, which could potentially lead to more voters being disqualified.

Senate Bill 189 establishes new “probable cause” criteria that allow state residents to challenge a voter’s qualifications to vote. There is a GA Voter cancellation portal. Here, you can take yourself off the roll if you’ve moved or maybe you have died.  But if anyone else has your information, they can delete you!  On the day the portal was “released to the public,” the Secretary of State’s office “accidentally!!” released every GA voter’s information, ID, social security, etc.   It was taken down shortly afterward, but what will be the effect of this massive error?  Was it an error in the first place? 

What should I do if my voting credentials are challenged?
If your voting credentials are challenged, you will need to provide proof of your eligibility to vote. It is important to have your ID and any other necessary documents ready.
Are there fewer polling locations now?

Yes, the number of polling locations has been reduced, which could lead to longer wait times and more difficulty accessing a polling place, especially in densely populated areas.

Data is available showing the average number of people who vote per hour at Georgia’s polling places. For example, 168 people/hour visit Hillside Elementary in Fulton County, while 3.2 people visit the Cherry Log Community Club House in Fulton.  In some parts of counties across the state, some people will stand in line for hours.  Early voting and vote by mail are ways to make voting easier and more democratic. 

How can I ensure my vote is counted?

To make sure your vote is counted, please double-check your registration status, bring the required ID, and be prepared for potential challenges. Voting early can also help avoid long lines and last-minute issues.

To further control your voting status, visit your “My Voter Page.” When you do this, you will see your voter information, polling location information, your voter participation history, an absentee ballot portal, which includes your history of voting by mail, and links to apply online or download an application

What Georgia Voters Are Saying

“I’ve been voting in Georgia for over 20 years, and this is the first time I’ve felt uncertain about whether my vote will count. The new laws are confusing and make the process more difficult.”

Selma Valinksi

“I had to wait in line for over two hours to vote in the last election because there were fewer polling places. It’s frustrating, but I’m determined to make my voice heard.”

Sidney Harriot

“The absentee voting process has become so complicated. I’m worried that my elderly parents, who rely on mail-in ballots, won’t be able to vote this year.”

Maria Gonzalez

“I was shocked when someone challenged my right to vote. I had to go through a lot of hassle to prove my eligibility. It’s discouraging, but I won’t let it stop me.”

Michael Johnson

“The new voting laws are clearly designed to make it harder for people to vote. It’s more important than ever to stay informed and fight for our rights.”

Emily Davis

“Despite the obstacles, I’m committed to voting in every election. Our democracy depends on it, and we must hold our leaders accountable.”

Samuel Hoffmany

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