Georgia lawmakers have passed a new elections measure that could impact the upcoming fall elections in the state. The legislation, which is now awaiting Governor Brian Kemp's approval, includes provisions that would make it easier for third-party or independent presidential candidates to qualify for the ballot in Georgia.
Under the new rules, any political party or body that has obtained ballot access in at least 20 states or territories would be eligible to qualify for Georgia's presidential ballot. This change could potentially benefit candidates like independent Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who is seeking to make the ballot in all 50 states.
The legislation also includes provisions that would broaden the criteria for upholding challenges to voter registrations. This would include evidence such as a voter's death, obtaining a homestead exemption in a different jurisdiction, or registering to vote at a nonresidential address.
Since the 2020 election, Georgia has seen a surge in voter eligibility challenges, with individual activists lodging tens of thousands of complaints. Proponents of the new legislation argue that these changes are necessary to prevent voter fraud and increase voter confidence.
However, voting rights groups, including the ACLU of Georgia, have raised objections to several provisions in the legislation, particularly the rules regarding voter challenges. They have threatened legal action if Governor Kemp signs the bill into law.
The governor has 40 days from the end of the legislative session to make a decision on the legislation. While Kemp's spokesperson did not indicate his stance on the bill, he mentioned that all bills undergo a thorough review process.
With Georgia being a closely watched battleground state, the outcome of this legislation could have significant implications for the upcoming elections and the participation of third-party candidates in the state.
