Georgia legislature and other GOP states seek greater control over state and local election offices

Lawmakers rush to their seats after the voting machines open in the House Chambers on Crossover Day morning, March 6, 2023. (Matthew Pearson/WABE)

Lawmakers in several Republican-led states have been looking to exert more authority over state and local election offices, claiming new powers that Democrats warn could be used to target left-leaning counties in future elections.

The moves range from requiring legislative approval of court settlements in election-related lawsuits to creating paths for taking over local election offices.

In North Carolina, a Republican proposal working its way through the General Assembly would change the composition of state and county election boards and give lawmakers sole authority to appoint board members.