Fulton County hires monitors for 2023 election oversight

Fulton County, Georgia, has engaged a team of independent monitors to oversee its election operations for the upcoming general election. This decision follows a history of scrutiny regarding the county's election processes, particularly after issues arose during the 2020 election recount, which included double-scanning of ballots. The county's choice to hire monitors was supported by a legal opinion from the state Attorney General, asserting that the State Election Board lacked authority to mandate such oversight. The monitoring team will include Carter Jones, who previously oversaw the county's 2020 election, along with Ryan Germany and Matt Mashburn. The Atlanta-based Carter Center will also assist in monitoring polling sites and training poll workers. Despite opposition from the Republican majority on the State Election Board and local election boards, the Fulton County Board of Registration and Elections reaffirmed its decision to proceed with the monitoring proposal. The county's election practices have been under close observation since a disastrous primary election in 2020, which led to the introduction of an independent monitor. Although the monitor reported disorganization, no evidence of fraud was found. The State Election Board had previously opted not to take over the county's elections after a performance review indicated improvements. The decision to hire independent monitors reflects Fulton County's commitment to ensuring a well-run election in 2024, aiming to restore public confidence in its electoral processes amid ongoing scrutiny and political tensions surrounding election integrity.