In a significant decision before the November election, a Fulton County Superior Court judge has suspended a controversial hand count rule. The Cobb County Board of Elections and Registration (BOER) has recognized the relief provided by Tuesday's ruling, which halts the requirement for hand counting votes in all 148 precincts of Cobb County on election night.
On Tuesday, Judge Robert McBurney handed down the decision, pointing out the impracticality given the time constraints to adequately prepare poll workers for such a significant change in the election process. "Anything that adds uncertainty and disorder to the electoral process disserves the public," McBurney stated, as reported by Cobb County's official news release. The rule's suspension temporarily removes a looming concern for the Cobb BOER, who filed an appeal earlier this month citing a need for clarity amidst preparation for an imminently approaching election.
The order, effective immediately, enjoins, or legally prohibits, the enforcement of the hand count rule until the court further determines the legitimacy and practicality of the rule set forth by the Georgia State Election Board (SEB). This action was prompted by feedback from county election officials and skepticism expressed by the Georgia Attorney General’s Office and the Secretary of State regarding the feasibility of this and other rules mandated by the State Election Board (SEB).
Cobb BOER Chairwoman, Tori Silas, expressed gratitude for the judge's prompt action. "Given that early voting has already begun for this election, the Cobb BOER greatly appreciates the Court’s thoughtful and expedient consideration of this matter," says Silas in the news release. The suspension aligns with the BOER's mandate to ensure "that elections are conducted honestly, efficiently, and uniformly," supporting their objective to instill confidence in the electoral process for all involved stakeholders.
