Georgia Judge Blocks Hand-Counting Ballot Rule

A Fulton County judge, Robert McBurney, has temporarily blocked a new rule from the Georgia State Election Board that mandated hand-counting of ballots after polls closed, citing significant timing issues that could disrupt the electoral process. The judge ruled that the requirement was introduced too close to Election Day and would impose undue burdens on poll workers, many of whom lacked adequate training for such a significant change. McBurney stated that while the rule could theoretically enhance election integrity, its immediate implementation would likely cause chaos and uncertainty during a fraught election season. He emphasized that any delay in certifying results should not be used as an excuse to withhold certification from election officials. The ruling is seen as a victory for those concerned about the integrity of the electoral process, including Democrats and voting rights advocates. The judge's decision remains in effect while he further considers the case's merits.