Georgia’s secretary of state transition and a looming shift to hand-marked ballots are reshaping how elections are overseen. This page explores what happens after Raffensperger’s resignation, the possible move to paper ballots by 2028, and how these changes could influence trust, turnout, and governance. Below you'll find quick, clear FAQs that reflect the headlines and what readers are likely to search for.
Brad Raffensperger left the secretary of state’s office to run for governor, placing election oversight in a new light. With a governor’s race underway, questions arise about who will lead the elections division, how policies will be shaped, and how the transition could affect ballot procedures and audit practices. Expect scrutiny over endorsements, candidate positions on voting rules, and whether the interim leadership will push changes faster or slower.
Georgia lawmakers are weighing a shift from QR codes and digital markers to hand-marked paper ballots as part of election-system reforms aimed at security and verifiability. If adopted by 2028, this could affect the workflow in polling places, counting processes, and post-election audits. The change would also shape how voters experience accessibility, speed, and trust in results.
Trust and turnout are closely tied to perceived integrity and ease of voting. Moving to paper ballots can boost voter confidence through tangible ballots and clearer audits, but transitions can raise concerns about training, equipment, and counting timelines. The net effect on turnout will hinge on communication, accessibility, and how smoothly the new system is implemented during later primaries and general elections.
Legislative action is expected to drive a timeline that includes interim fixes for 2026 and 2027, with a broader framework for 2028. The timeline depends on committee reviews, funding, and how quickly a new oversight structure can be established after Raffensperger’s departure. Readers should watch for special sessions, bill drafts, and funding approvals that spell out milestones.
Current debates involve state lawmakers, potential gubernatorial candidates, and election-security advocates. Former President Trump’s influence is part of the public discourse around 2020 results, and candidates’ stances on election procedures can signal future policy directions. Tracking candidate statements and committee actions helps readers understand likely regulatory changes.
QR codes have been used to link ballots to digital records for efficiency, but critics argue they can create opacity or confusion. The debate centers on transparency, auditability, and whether voters should rely on human-readable ballot marks or machine-linked data. Understanding the role of QR codes helps voters anticipate how the ballot experience might change.
The 2020 election continues to haunt Georgia's political landscape, especially in the Republican primary for secretary of state.