Georgia’s Primary Delayed, Special Legislative Session Called Because Of Coronavirus

Originally scheduled for March 24, Georgia’s presidential primary has been postponed until May because of the coronavirus outbreak.

David Goldman / Associated Press file

Georgia has decided to postpone its presidential primary, originally scheduled for March 24, until May because of the coronavirus.

Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger made the call over the weekend, saying in-person voting presents “increased risk” to people casting ballots and working the polls.

“Events are moving rapidly and my highest priority is protecting the health of our poll workers, their families, and the community at large,” he said in a statement.

The move came shortly after Gov. Brian Kemp declared a public health emergency in the state, an action that will need the approval of state lawmakers. They’ll meet in a special session Monday to consider the action.

WABE politics reporter Emma Hurt joined Sam Whitehead on “Morning Edition” to sort through the details.