ATLANTA, GA — With the 2026 midterm cycle underway, Democracy Defense Project – Georgia is publicly rejecting proposals to alter early voting and eliminate no-excuse absentee ballots, which would undermine confidence in an elections process that a large majority of Georgians trust.
“Voters have made clear they have confidence in Georgia’s elections, and the reckless agenda from Party leaders puts politics ahead of election integrity,” said DDP–Georgia Board Members former Governor Roy Barnes (D), former U.S. Senator Saxby Chambliss (R), and former Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin (D).
“Those in a position of authority should prepare for a safe, secure 2026 election — not pursue rollbacks that would punish working families, seniors, military voters abroad, caregivers, and Georgians with health challenges who rely on early and absentee voting.”
At a recent hearing of the State Election Board, state officials floated a proposal to dramatically curtail absentee voting. Not only does this board lack the legal authority to enact such a change, but it would also be wildly unpopular with Georgia voters.
A May 2025 statewide survey (Cygnal) commissioned by DDP – GA shows confidence in our election process is rising and voters want to keep convenient, secure options:
- Nearly 75% of voters say they trust Georgia’s elections — with almost half rating their trust 8–10/10, a 12-point gain since last year.
- Awareness of SB 202 is up to 82% (+5), and support is up 10 net points since Sept. 2024; voter ID remains the most popular provision (supported by 72% of supporters).
“Making it harder to vote — and dismantling a system that works — would undermine confidence in the ballot box while disenfranchising Georgians. Instead of looking for ways to score political points, our leaders should enforce existing laws and encourage every eligible Georgian to exercise their constitutional rights in the next election.”
Published: Oct 29, 2025
