If You Can Keep It: Georgia's new election rules

Two seemingly small rule changes to Georgia’s elections could have a big impact on the state’s certification process in November and beyond.

The Aug. 19 rule change allowed board members to ask for a hand recount of ballots before certification and investigate any possible discrepancies.

The Aug. 6 rule was adopted by the state election board 3-2, along partisan lines. It gives local election boards the opportunity to conduct a “reasonable inquiry” into election results. However, it did not define what a “reasonable inquiry” was. Critics worry it could be used as a reason for board members to vote not to certify.

What will these changes mean for Georgia’s future elections?