NAACP Files Lawsuit in Georgia, Seeking to Halt New Rule Requiring Hand-Count of Ballots

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 2, 2024

Contact: Alicia Mercedes, [email protected]

WASHINGTON - Last night, the Georgia State Conference of the NAACP, in collaboration with the NAACP National Office and other leading advocacy organizations filed a motion to intervene (MOI) in the State of Georgia, seeking to overturn the newly implemented hand-counting rule that threatens to prevent the timely tabulation of election resultsand decreases ballot security by requiring multiple poll officers to have to repeatedly hand count ballots prior to their tabulation.

NAACP President & CEO, Derrick Johnson released the following statement:

"For over a century, the NAACP has remained laser-focused on the mobilization, and protection of Black voters. We know that the advancement of our democracy depends on those in power working to defend its founding principles. Make no mistake - these extremist agents are actively working to undermine our democracy and silence our voices. We're not backing down. The filing of today's lawsuits is one of many crucial steps we are taking to make sure democracy works for everybody. We won't stop until every vote is counted and every voice is heard."

A copy of the filing can be found here.

"As home to one of the largest Black communities in the nation, Georgia is no stranger to voter suppression. We know the power we hold, and we're prepared to exercise it," said Gerald Griggs, President, Georgia State Conference of the NAACP. "Whether it's canvassing on the corner, or filing suits to secure our votes, the NAACP will continue to ensure that our voices are heard. From criminal justice to reproductive rights, too much is at stake for us to cower. Let's get to work."

The NAACP is currently litigating seven election-related cases across the nation, in states such as Georgia, Texas, Pennsylvania, and more. These litigious efforts are part of the Association's broader work to ensure free and fair elections, which include Election Protection training, and an Election Day Voter Protection Hub that allows voters to report incidents of attempted suppression and receive legal support in real-time.

Ahead of November 5, NAACP is spending $20 million to mobilize 14.5+ million Black voters across 12 priority states. For more information on our civic engagement program, visit naacp.org/vote.

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About NAACP

The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund - also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.

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