Georgia Democrats are contesting the inclusion of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and three other candidates on the state’s presidential ballots, part of a nationwide effort to prevent candidates who could draw votes away from incumbent President Joe Biden. While the Democratic, Republican, and Libertarian parties have guaranteed spots on the Georgia ballot, other parties and independent candidates must meet specific qualifications.
The Democratic Party of Georgia’s Executive Director, Tolulope Kevin Olasanoye, raised concerns about Kennedy, independent Cornel West, Claudia De la Cruz of the Party for Socialism and Liberation, and Jill Stein of the Green Party not adhering to Georgia’s election laws. Olasanoye pointed out missed deadlines, filing fee omissions, incorrect names on nomination petitions, and the failure to hold required conventions as reasons for disqualifying the candidates from the Georgia ballot.
Despite the Democratic Party’s actions, candidates argue that they are being unfairly targeted, limiting voter choices. Larry Sharpe, an outreach director for American Values 2024, criticized stringent ballot access laws in various states, indicating a growing desire among voters for alternative options beyond the major parties.
Challenges against alternative candidates are also present in other states including Delaware, Illinois, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, and the District of Columbia. These challenges drain resources from candidates and are seen as a common tactic, with increased opposition from Democrats noted in the 2024 election cycle.
Georgia recently adjusted its ballot access requirements, triggering obstacles for independent candidates like Kennedy and West, who must gather signatures from registered voters to make the ballot. De la Cruz, the nominee for the Party for Socialism and Liberation, also faces petition requirements. Currently, signatures and registrations are under verification by county election offices, with a completion deadline of August 1st.
In response to candidates striving to make the Georgia ballot, a lawyer representing Georgia’s Democratic Party has questioned the legality of efforts by Kennedy, West, De la Cruz, and Stein. The lawyer argues that these endeavors are flawed, leading to hearings before an administrative law judge, with a final decision to be made by Georgia’s Secretary of State.
Georgia voters have not had more than four options on the ballot since 1948, with Democrats asserting that the Party for Socialism and Liberation and the Green Party have not fulfilled necessary registration requirements in the state, disqualifying them from the 20-state rule. Democrats also claim that some petition signatures filed by Kennedy, West, and De la Cruz are invalid due to inaccuracies, incomplete information, or missed deadlines and fees. Despite the challenges, alternative candidates express a desire to provide additional choices for Georgia voters.
