Georgia Governor Consults Attorney General Over Democrat-Led Campaign To Remove GOP Election Board Members

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp (R) is seeking guidance from the state’s attorney general regarding the potential removal of three Republican members of the State Election Board (SEB) following what many are calling an “intimidation campaign” led by Democrats. The push to oust the GOP board members comes after allegations of ethics violations were leveled against them.

The complaints, led by state Sen. Nabilah Islam Parkes (D) and other Democrats, accuse the board members of actions that purportedly interfere with free and fair elections in Georgia. However, the timing and nature of the complaints have raised concerns that this is an attempt to undermine the board’s efforts to secure elections in the state.

Gov. Kemp’s office released a statement indicating that they have forwarded the matter to the attorney general for further advice. “This office has received Senator Nabilah Islam Parkes and others’ letters alleging ethics violations by members of the State Elections Board,” Kemp’s press secretary stated. The governor’s office is unsure if it has the authority to act under the relevant state code, and they are awaiting further legal guidance.

The accusations against the Republican board members include claims that they adopted a rule that could undermine elections, coordinated with the Georgia Republican Party inappropriately, and held a secret meeting. The board members, including Janelle King, Dr. Janice Johnston, and Rick Jeffares, have denied these allegations, arguing that their actions were in full compliance with state law and necessary for ensuring election integrity.

Critics of the Democrat-led campaign, including Ken Cuccinelli of the Election Transparency Initiative, have labeled the effort as an intimidation tactic aimed at disrupting the work of the SEB. Cuccinelli pointed out that Senator Parkes had ample opportunity to address any legislative concerns during her tenure but chose not to, suggesting that the current complaints are politically motivated.

The situation has sparked a broader debate about the role of the SEB in Georgia’s election process and the potential for political interference. As the governor awaits legal guidance, the controversy underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding election integrity in the state.