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Georgia defies bomb threats as election chief declares a “free, fair and fast” vote amid record turnout
Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger answers reporters' questions. (Credit: Tammy Joyner)
ATLANTA – Despite dealing with over 60 bomb threats, Georgia’s election chief said Tuesday the state’s general election went smoothly.
Georgia had a record turnout with nearly 5.3 million people voting, Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger told reporters. Election officials in the state’s 159 counties have until 5 p.m. to certify votes.
“We had a great election cycle. It was free, fair and fast. You can’t beat that,” Raffensperger said.
The bomb threats came from Russian operatives, Raffensperger said, adding, “For those who interfered in our election, I have a very clear message for you: Citizens will not be fearful of coming out to vote. … We will not be cowarded. We look forward to certifying the 2024 election.”
Asked whether he’d open an investigation into any county election board member who refused to certify, Raffensperger responded, “We expect them to follow the law and the Constitution.”
Later this week, local election superintendents will conduct risk-limiting audits on one federal or state-wide race randomly selected by the secretary of state.
The last day for the State Elections Division to certify the votes cast for federal and statewide contests is Dec. 27.
Have questions? Contact Tammy Joyner on X @lvjoyner or at [email protected].
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