Statement of Cindy Battles, on behalf of Common Cause Georgia

The COVID-19 crisis has been reshaping our day-to-day lives, in ways we were not expecting, including disrupting our elections.  As we take precautions to support the health and safety of our friends and neighbors, we also need work to continue to protect our democracy at this time.  

Voting is how we, as citizens, participate in our government. Even in these chaotic times, we should all be working toward a high turnout in Georgia’s upcoming elections. It’s important for all voters’ voices to be heard as we select the officials who will represent us. 

We support Secretary of State Raffensperger’s decision to mail absentee ballot applications to all registered voters. Sending absentee ballot applications to all registered voters will make it accessible and secure for Georgians to vote by mail, if they choose to; and hopefully it will encourage more people to participate in the May 19 elections. We must also make sure that in-person voting is a safe and accessible option for voters who want or need to vote that way.

We are surprised to hear commentary suggesting that a high-turnout election could be anything other than a good thing. Making it more convenient and safe for voters to vote is exactly the right strategy for these times.

Common Cause and allies will be working to make sure no voter is disenfranchised, and we will continue monitoring any changes that will impact voters.