Written by Daniel Thompson.
Governor Brian Kemp of Georgia has enacted a significant piece of legislation aimed at transforming the state’s election processes. Dubbed SB 189, the new law mandates the counting and reporting of all absentee ballots on Election Night itself. This move is seen as a major step towards enhancing the transparency and efficiency of elections in Georgia, ensuring results are known promptly, which is vital for maintaining public trust in the electoral system.
The law also addresses several other key issues, including eliminating potential conflicts of interest between the Secretary of State, the State Board of Elections, and ballot counters. Additionally, it sets stricter residency requirements for voters, such as prohibiting the use of P.O. boxes as residential proof and mandating re-registration for those who have voted in another state or district. These changes are designed to streamline voter registration and prevent any ambiguities regarding voter eligibility.
One of the standout features of SB 189 is its requirement for absentee ballots to be verified, tabulated, and reported within an hour of polls closing. This rapid turnaround is unprecedented in Georgia’s history and marks a bold initiative to ensure election results are timely and reflect the will of the people as accurately and quickly as possible.
Reactions and Controversies
The introduction of SB 189 has stirred a mix of applause and criticism across the political spectrum. Supporters, like Jeremiah Poff of the Washington Examiner, argue that the bill greatly enhances election integrity in Georgia. Poff emphasizes the importance of public confidence in the electoral process, suggesting that timely counting of votes is crucial for the peaceful transfer of power and the maintenance of civil order.
However, opposition voices have been vocal in their concerns. Fair Fight Action, an organization associated with Stacey Abrams, has labeled the bill “a gift to MAGA election deniers,” arguing that it could lead to increased disenfranchisement of minority voters. Critics like Andrea Young from the ACLU of Georgia have expressed worries that these new measures might overburden election workers and complicate the voting process, potentially curtailing voter rights and access.
Despite these concerns, the bill’s proponents maintain that the changes are necessary to safeguard the electoral process and ensure that Georgia’s elections are beyond reproach. The law aims to eliminate ambiguities and ensure a smooth electoral process, thereby reinforcing the legitimacy of the outcomes.
Our Take
The passage of SB 189 in Georgia represents a significant stride towards ensuring that elections are secure, transparent, and efficient. By requiring all absentee ballots to be counted swiftly on Election Night, the state is setting a standard that could serve as a model for others to follow. This approach not only promotes transparency but also helps maintain the crucial public trust in the electoral system.
While criticisms regarding potential voter disenfranchisement must be taken seriously, it is important for the state to balance these concerns with the need for robust election security measures. The effectiveness of SB 189 will ultimately depend on its implementation and the state’s ability to manage the logistical challenges it presents. If successful, Georgia could indeed become a beacon of election integrity and efficiency, showing that swift, transparent counts and stringent security measures can coexist to enhance democratic processes.