Secretary Raffensperger Coordinates State, Local Response to Safeguard Voters Amid South Georgia Wildfires

Atlanta – Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger is leading the coordination with affected South Georgia counties and state partners, including the Georgia Emergency Management Agency, to ensure that Georgia voters impacted by recent wildfires can continue to have free and fair ballot access. Clinch, Echols, Brantley, and Lowndes are among those affected counties.

The largest wildfire, a fast-moving system near the Clinch-Echols county line, has grown to thousands of acres due to the drought conditions affecting the state. Currently, parts of Echols County are under a mandatory evacuation order.

“We’re working with multiple agencies to assist disaster-impacted Georgians,” said Secretary Raffensperger. “No matter the situation, we will ensure every eligible citizen can vote.”

Potential election impacts include communication challenges posed by power outages and road closures, and the logistical strain on local officials who may need to temporarily relocate polling locations in some cases. Already, Lowndes County has stepped in to offer their support to surrounding impacted counties, providing remote workspace.

“In times of crisis, Georgians help Georgians,” added Raffensperger. “I’m proud of Lowndes County for stepping up and rallying around their neighbor in a time of need.”

NOTE: GEMA has created a map showing the affected counties advanced voting locations. Click here to see it.