Brad Raffensperger, Georgia’s Secretary of State, has voiced strong opposition to a proposal that would require hand-counting ballots on Election Day, warning it could lead to confusion and delays. The plan, introduced by Fayette County election official Sharlene Alexander, would have poll workers manually tally votes, ensuring results match machine counts. If discrepancies are found, poll managers would need to resolve them.
In a press release, Raffensperger dismissed the proposal as “misguided,” emphasizing that swift and accurate election results are crucial for maintaining public trust. He pointed to Senate Bill 202, a law enacted to expedite vote counting while ensuring transparency. Raffensperger warned that hand-counting could jeopardize the efficiency and reliability of the election process.
The proposal has stirred controversy, with some defending it as a return to traditional methods, while others, including Raffensperger, argue it’s an unnecessary complication. Alexander countered that hand-counting had been a staple in Fayette County for years until it was stopped in 2022 by state election officials.
The State Election Board is set to vote on the measure on August 19, with a mix of concerns over accuracy and timeliness dominating the debate. Earlier this month, the board adopted a separate rule allowing extended verification before election results are certified, a move some fear could slow down the process. Raffensperger took aim at the board members, describing them as “unelected bureaucrats” who lack the experience to make informed decisions about election administration.
The State Election Board consists of five members: four Republicans and one Democrat. Their decision on this proposal could have far-reaching implications for Georgia’s election procedures in the coming years.
