Shortened Ga. runoff costing more in Richmond County

AUGUSTA, Ga. - Amid criticism of other voting changes, few noticed in 2021 when Georgia lawmakers shortened the period between an election and a runoff from nine weeks to four weeks.

The change is leaving less time to vote early before the state’s June 21 runoff.

It’s also costing more money locally.

Travis Doss, executive director of the Richmond County Board of Elections, says this runoff will cost about $10,000 more than previous runoffs Augusta has seen.

Augusta Commission members acting as the Finance Committee on Tuesday approved $199,525 for runoff election money. The matter will head to the full commission next week.

Opponents say the shorter runoff period is meant to suppress turnout.

Supporters admit the four-week period is challenging for election officials, but they dispute charges of voter suppression.

Copyright 2022 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.