Peach Tree Times

ATLANTA — Tonight at 6 p.m. ET, the Cherokee County Commissioners will vote on whether to remove one of its two Democratic board members. In response, Common Cause Georgia and other pro-voter organizations have sent letters to the Board of Commissioners, urging them to maintain the bipartisan composition of the board.

Previously, appointments to the Cherokee County Board of Elections were made from names submitted by County Party Committees to the Board of Commissioners (BOC). However, local bills HB 642 and HB 644 now allow the BOC to disregard these submissions.

Aunna Dennis, executive director of Common Cause Georgia, issued a statement regarding this development: “The recomposition of election boards is becoming a tactical trend in targeted areas in Georgia. The Board of Elections has a responsibility to act within the best interest of its constituents. This attempt to vote out a democratic member goes against that.”

Dennis emphasized the importance of bipartisanship for fair and transparent election procedures: “Georgians know bipartisanship on a body like the Board of Elections is fundamental for creating fair and transparent election procedures. Cherokee County has traditionally maintained a bipartisan board. The people of Georgia want reflective democracy, equal representation from both major political parties that reflect the communities they serve.”

She further added that such a model ensures diverse perspectives are considered: “This model ensures the protection of a diverse perspective and allows for all voices to have a seat at the table. Common Cause Georgia urges the Board of Commissioners to protect bipartisanship on the board and respect the will of Georgia voters.”

The agenda for tonight’s Board of Commissioners meeting can be found here. Copies of both letters sent by Common Cause Georgia can be accessed through provided links.