The Alabama Republican Party (ALGOP) is backing legislation requiring county probate judges to conduct mandatory ballot audits after every county and statewide election.
House Bill 259 (HB259), sponsored by State Rep. Debbie Wood (R-Valley), would require the probate judge of each county to conduct a post-election audit after every county and statewide general election to determine the accuracy of the originally reported results of the election.
"The Alabama Republican Party is fully committed to securing and maintaining the integrity of our electoral process,” said ALGOP chairman John Wahl. “Post-election audits are a positive way to safeguard the accuracy of our state’s vote count, and reassure every voter about the accuracy of our elections.”
ALGOP passed a resolution in favor of legislation requiring post-election audits at their August 2023 Summer Meeting.
If passed, the bill would require the probate judge to order a post-election manual audit after every county and statewide general election consisting of a manual tally of all ballots in at least one randomly selected precinct for one randomly selected countywide or statewide race. Discrepancies will be reported to the Secretary of State. Likewise, if the audit results name a winner other than the person initially certified, the outcome shall constitute grounds for an election contest.
“This legislative effort reflects our Party’s unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of a free and fair democratic process,” Wahl concluded. “It is with great pride that we recognize Representative Debbie Wood's proactive steps in aligning with the Party's resolution to implement post-election audits across the state. Her introduction of House Bill 259 is a testament to our collective dedication to transparency, fairness, and the restoration of voter confidence. I want to see Alabama leading the nation in common sense solutions, and this initiative not only aligns with our Party's values but also sets a precedent for other states to follow in strengthening the security of our nation's elections."
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email craig.monger@1819news.com.
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