Civil Rights Groups Sue Georgia to Extend Voter Registration Deadline Post-Hurricane Helene

Civil rights organizations filed a lawsuit against the state of Georgia on Monday, seeking to extend the voter registration deadline by one week following the disruptions caused by Hurricane Helene. The lawsuit, submitted in federal court by a coalition of civil rights groups, argues that the hurricane significantly impacted residents’ ability to register in time for the October 7 deadline.

Hurricane Helene made landfall just days before the crucial registration period, which typically sees a surge in voter sign-ups. According to the group’s attorneys, the “massive and widespread disruptions and devastation” inflicted by the hurricane likely prevented tens of thousands of Georgia residents from registering on time. They highlighted several barriers that residents faced, including lack of internet access, difficulties in traveling, limited postal services, and the closure of operational county election offices.

The civil rights coalition is advocating for an extension of the registration deadline until next Monday to accommodate those affected. Their request aims to ensure that all eligible voters have the opportunity to participate in upcoming elections without being hindered by the aftermath of the hurricane.

In response to the lawsuit, CNN reached out to the office of Georgia Republican Governor Brian Kemp for comment but has not yet received a reply.

Voting rights advocates have also been active in neighboring Florida, where they are urging Governor Ron DeSantis to extend the voter registration deadline. This plea comes amid concerns over Hurricane Helene’s impact and the anticipated arrival of Hurricane Milton, which is projected to affect the Tampa Bay area in the coming days.

As the registration deadline looms, civil rights groups are rallying to protect the voting rights of those impacted by the natural disaster. The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for voter participation in Georgia, where access to the electoral process remains a critical issue.