Cherokee County election board hears public concerns on voting transparency

In a recent meeting of the Cherokee County Board of Elections and Registration, held on May 5, 2025, the atmosphere was charged with community engagement as residents voiced their concerns about election integrity and transparency. The board, tasked with overseeing the electoral process, faced a range of public comments that highlighted the growing unease among voters regarding the reliability of electronic voting systems and the management of voter rolls.

The meeting began with a procedural motion to remove seven individuals from the voter rolls, which passed unanimously. This routine action underscored the board's commitment to maintaining accurate voter registration, although it also revealed the challenges they face in tracking non-residential addresses in a county of significant size.

As the session transitioned to public comments, six residents took the floor, each bringing their unique perspectives on the electoral process. Sandra Martin opened the discussion with a passionate plea for greater scrutiny of past elections, expressing her belief in widespread fraud during the 2020 elections. She urged the board to ensure that future elections are conducted with more transparency, advocating for paper ballots and a system that allows for thorough examination of votes.

Beth MacKera followed, challenging the board's stance on electronic voting machines. She questioned the board's alignment with recent executive orders aimed at reforming election processes, expressing concern over potential non-compliance and its implications for federal funding. Her comments reflected a broader sentiment among constituents who feel that their voices are not being adequately represented.

Rita Ronson echoed these sentiments, referencing a recent resolution passed at a district convention aimed at ensuring transparent elections in Georgia. She criticized the board for its perceived lack of responsiveness to the predominantly Republican constituency of Cherokee County, calling for a more representative approach to election oversight.

The meeting concluded with a sense of urgency as residents implored the board to take their concerns seriously and to act in accordance with the wishes of the community. As the board listened attentively, it became clear that the path forward would require not only adherence to electoral laws but also a commitment to restoring public trust in the electoral process. The discussions at this meeting reflect a pivotal moment for Cherokee County, as residents seek assurance that their elections will be fair, transparent, and reflective of their collective will.