Political Insider

By MaxieGrrrl

November 1, 2008 6:42 PM | Link to this

Makes me want to run for Secretary of State…

By RJ

November 1, 2008 6:44 PM | Link to this

Handel is clearly in over head as Georgia’s Secretary of State. Indicators of a higher than usual turnout have been present for quite some time and she failed to provide the needed leadership to assist local election officials anticipate and plan for it.

By Red

November 1, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this

I am one of the 10,000 absentee voters in Gwinnett County that voted on an invalid ballot. The ultimte fault of any voting irregularities lies with Handel. However, she tries to shirk her responsibility and continues to pass the buck. I guess I am “grandstanding.” But, “the Secretary of State’s office will deploy election monitors and technicians” came a little too late in our case. Yes, they say they will manually transfer the votes to a valid ballot. Handel’s office will have to pull their heads out of the sand to accomplish this task. No matter her party affiliation, Handel is inept and out of touch with voters.

By ItsHotinHere!

November 1, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this

karen handel: if you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen. take the criticism, correct the problem, and do your job.

By mamas meatballs

November 1, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this

handel, if you can’t set the table and pass the pepper get out the pulpit, i mean kitchen

By RS

November 1, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this

The Secretary of State has brought discredit to the State of Georgia. It was obvious early in the process that turnout was going to be higher than normal. Proactive steps should have been taken by the Secretary besides written or unwritten law. The long lines have brought national unwanted attention to the state.

By RS

November 1, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this

The Secretary of State has brought discredit to the State of Georgia. It was obvious early in the process that turnout was going to be higher than normal. Proactive steps should have been taken by the Secretary besides written or unwritten law. The long lines have brought national unwanted attention to the state.

By SuwaneeRepublican

November 1, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this

Other states are able to extend voting hours- why not Georgia? Waiting 6 hours to vote is ridiculous- 12 hours is obscene. Add to the long lines invalid absentee ballots and college students suddenly finding their invalid to vote- it’s completely ridiculous. It’s not political grandstanding to ask the Secretary of State to DO HER JOB.

By kclubmember

November 1, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this

Secretary Of State Karen Handel purposely undermanned certain voting districts to manipulate the November 4 election.

By Jennifer

November 1, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this

It seems to me that if you extend the hours in counties that lean towards democrats, then you need to extend them in all counties. I’m getting sick of this.

By Bo Chambliss **LOBBYIST**

November 1, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this

Karen Handel is 1 of Saxby’s favorite people. She has the machines programmed for him to win no matter how Georgia votes.

By Ian

November 1, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this

We should keep this reasonable and civil. No one could seriously believe that machines were programmed for a particular candidate. County officials are the ones who determine the number of machines at precincts and the numbers of workers. Smearing people of either party accomplishes nothing and diminishes the process.

By GeorgiaBoy

November 1, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this

Karen Handel is the one that’s grandstanding. She did the same thing when she was on the city council. I think she lives by the mantra “my way or the highway.” I hope she doesn’t follow through on plans to run for governor, I mean, she’s no idiot like Sarah Palin, but she’s more of an A-hole than Sonny. Gee wiz, do we have any competent politicians from any party in Georgia? There’s a reason I’m an independent.

By Bip

November 1, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this

Handel is on drugs. Average waits of >2 hours and waits up to 6 hours is should not be acceptable to her.

By GADawg

November 1, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this

Handel is a fraud! She does not want every vote counted.

By jon

November 1, 2008 7:19 PM | Link to this

If the Secretary of State visited all these complainers personally and took their vote while the laid on the couch watched American Idol, these people would whine about it, because they are partisan hacks. Only if Handel had a (D) after her name would they be happy. Shut-up and vote or don’t.

By Mike D

November 1, 2008 7:19 PM | Link to this

I’m from Oregon, so I hope you dont mind me making a comment. We have vote by mail here. It works well. People get their ballot in the mail a week before the election and can mail it back or drop it off. It saves the state money, no electronic voting machines to worry about. I wish every state would adopt vote by mail. The problem is the politicians dont want everyone to vote.

By Trudy

November 1, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this

Ian: Could you please share your source that proves that no machines have been programmed to favor a candidate? We need proof, please.

By golfgurl

November 1, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this

She didn’t stand outside in those lines. The long lines on tuesday will effect production at many places of business. She is not thinking about GA businesses.

By Terry

November 1, 2008 7:29 PM | Link to this

Does it concern any that our elected Mayor and U.S. House Rep. either does not know the election laws, or they just want to break Federal Election laws? Good going Rep. Lewis and Mayor Franklin!

By Pastor Carl

November 1, 2008 7:30 PM | Link to this

6, 8, 10 hours in line waiting to perform the rudamentary task that makes us all American is simply unacceptable. This fact is not Demoncratic or Republican and just because a couple politicians with Democratic affiliations chose to hold up the mirror to the failure of Republican Secretary of State’s voting process and her tight rein on voting hours merely shows the flaws of the very system that make America, American and allows everyone to be involved on a equal footing. Shame on Handel for whining about what folk might have said about the process when all she had to do was to use her office to develop a process accessible to everyone without the rediculously long wait. She might need a new job!

By I'm Your Huckleberry

November 1, 2008 7:32 PM | Link to this

Trudy,

Could you please share your source that you did not kill President John F. Kennedy?

We need proof, please.

By RES

November 1, 2008 7:32 PM | Link to this

Let’s not forget, Georgians have been able to vote early since September. Attempts to pack last minute registrations and people waiting til nearly the last minute caused the lines. There were no lines earlier in October when everybody could have voted just as well.

By jeffrye

November 1, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this

Maybe our obstructionist Secretary of State Karen Handel should allow ALL Georgians who want to vote the chance to do it in a manner that wouldn’t involve a six hour wait. She has done everything within her power to make our right to vote a most frustrating exercise in Democracy. Hope y’all are proud of her….Good luck Obama!

By James

November 1, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this

I canceled my sub to this liberal rag that I would not use to wipe my @$$! I bet none of you liberal whiners have a subscription either you cheap whiners just keep hating those that can and keep waiting on your hand out.

By James

November 1, 2008 7:34 PM | Link to this

I canceled my sub to this liberal rag that I would not use to wipe my @$$! I bet none of you liberal whiners have a subscription either you cheap whiners just keep hating those that can and keep waiting on your hand out.

By James

November 1, 2008 7:34 PM | Link to this

I canceled my sub to this liberal rag that I would not use to wipe my @$$! I bet none of you liberal whiners have a subscription either you cheap whiners just keep hating those that can and keep waiting on your hand out.

By Derek

November 1, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this

Be grateful you have early voting, most states don’t! Nov 4 is set aside for official voting! If you ca’t put the effort in to make it to the Polls at that time, then it must not be that important to you! Get a life or vote absentee!!!

By Rogie

November 1, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this

The first paragraph is fine. The second is completely unnecessary. Even it is true, she could have taken the high road but now appears to be just as partisan as those that she accuses. It’s your job Ms. Handel. This sort of nonsense is pretty predictable in any election and is part of your job description whether you are democrat or republican. Next time, just take the high road and leave out your opinion.

By jamman

November 1, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this

karen handel, dont even think of running for public office 2010.your 2008 behaviour will not be forgotten.

By jamman

November 1, 2008 7:39 PM | Link to this

karen handel, dont even think of running for public office 2010.your 2008 behaviour will not be forgotten.

By phil

November 1, 2008 7:39 PM | Link to this

As a taxpayer in this state, it doesn’t matter the party. Sec of State Handel was warned months ago to be prepared given Georgia had close to million new voters. She and the biggest counties should prepared better by having more location, more equipment, better trained staff and longer hours.

To brag about people having to stand 8 to 10 hours in line as glitch and democratic party is grandstanding is total BS.

She should ashamed of Georgia making the National News for the long lines and problems and once again being the laughing stock of the country.

By Derek

November 1, 2008 7:39 PM | Link to this

Be grateful you have early voting, most states don’t! Nov 4 is set aside for official voting! If you ca’t put the effort in to make it to the Polls at that time, then it must not be that important to you! Get a life or vote absentee!!!

By jamman

November 1, 2008 7:40 PM | Link to this

karen handel, dont even think of running for public office 2010.your 2008 behaviour will not be forgotten.

By jamman

November 1, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this

karen handel, dont even think of running for public office 2010.your 2008 behaviour will not be forgotten.

By jamman

November 1, 2008 7:43 PM | Link to this

karen handel, dont even think of running for public office 2010.your 2008 behaviour will not be forgotten.

By Don

November 1, 2008 7:43 PM | Link to this

Karen Handel is a partisan Republican in a job with real responsibility. That is not a problem. However, she has allowed her political views to trump her job responsibilities. Whatever credibility she once had has been squandered. Her lack of integrity is disappointing. Of course, she probably only sees this job as a stepping stone to higher office.

By phil

November 1, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this

As a taxpayer in this state, it doesn’t matter the party. Sec of State Handel was warned months ago to be prepared given Georgia had close to million new voters. She and the biggest counties should prepared better by having more location, more equipment, better trained staff and longer hours.

To brag about people having to stand 8 to 10 hours in line as glitch and democratic party is grandstanding is total BS.

She should ashamed of Georgia making the National News for the long lines and problems and once again being the laughing stock of the country.

By jamman

November 1, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this

karen handel, dont even think of running for public office 2010.your 2008 behaviour will not be forgotten.

By gainesville101

November 1, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this

The counties hire the poll workers not the Sec of State. She can not alter voting hours or add days. 45 days is more than enough time to get to the polls without waiting to the last minute. Yes you could vote early 45 days out. And as long as the albatross of the so-called voting Rights Act hangs around our neck, nothing can be done without pre-approval of the US JUstice Dept 90 dyas out. So grow up, take off the blinders and take civics/government class.

By O4W Res

November 1, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this

Karen: You DO know that to us your new last name is Mishandel - right?

By Jeff

November 1, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this

1) If you are going to have extended hours in certain ‘larger’ counties -which tend to have higher black, and thus Democratic populations - you must have those same extended hours in ALL counties, including the smaller ones that have less black population and thus trend Republican.

2) The Secretary of State does NOT control local poll hours. The local Election Supervisor and his/her staff does. And it costs your LOCAL county more money to extend the hours. The State does not pay for it.

3) I personally voted nearly a month ago, the week of Oct 6 or so. I literally was the only one voting when I went in. Your procrastination does not an emergency make. You’ve been able to vote since around Sept 20 or so, meaning nearly two full months!!! Most of us had our minds made up long ago, so there really was no reason NOT to vote a month ago.

4) Remember, if you vote Repulican OR Democrat, you vote AGAINST your own best interest.

LIBERTARIAN ‘08!!

By SouthPeach

November 1, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this

What a bunch of uneducated people. You need to read up on the election laws of the state of Georgia. If you don’t like the way Handle is running the Secretary of State’s office…then find a Democrat and thank them. They are the ones who wrote and passed the laws that mandate what that office can and can not do. Idiots…I hate ignorance!!!!!!

By Ga patriot

November 1, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this

GOP Florida governor Charlie Christ extended early voting to this weekend despite protests from his party. He was quoted as saying something to the effect that “this isn’t political; voting is an American right.”

The despicable voter suppressionist Karen Handel doesn’t believe in this sentiment. She believes that making voting as difficult as she legally can for minorities will put her in the good graces of the know-nothing, atavistic members of her party when runs for higher office.

It is up to all of us, Democrats, Republicans, and independents, to reject the Karen Handels of this county: morally corrupt officials who use their offices to deny Americans their God-given rights in order to perpetrate their own untoward ambitions.

Vote against her, support her opponents in primaries, do whatever you can to end her appalling career and return her to the well-deserved oblivion from whence she sprang.

We, the people of this great state, can do so much better than people like her.

We can hardly do worse.

By matt

November 1, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this

Reading the comments and the general editorial reminds me that this is an extremely liberal newspaper. Most of the schmucks who write these comments don’t recognize that it’s the local districts responsibility to open as many early voting locations as they desire — it was not the state’s nor the fed’s responsibility. The worst county for delays was Clayton county — those idiots cannot keep their schools accredited, the sheriff and police departments are so corrupt that they frequently make national news, and now everyone is surprised they screwed up the early voting.

Everyone complaining on this site is the problem with this country — we are moving to a left leaning, baby killing, idiocracy that rewards those who sit on their a*******es because they are “disadvantaged” — and disrespecting those who built this country as well as ignoring sound morale values.

This state sickens me and the thought of having the three headed monsters of Obama, Reid, and Pilosi scares the crap out of me. Anyone who works hard in this country and has made a modest, middle class income — better plan on giving $5-6K more a year to the government. Everyone thinks the economy is bad now, just wait.

By Marty

November 1, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this

We elected Karen Handel, a COLLEGE DROPOUT, to the position of Secretary of State, the overseer of our elections. Georgia, right now we’re getting what we deserve.

By Sally

November 1, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this

Matt, we are leaning toward a unborn fetus killing government vs a born Iraqi Baby killing government.

Please label your definitions correctly, or nobody will read you, and dismiss you as just another RushHannity ditto.

Try thinking for yourself.

Then try the salve.

By this is all BS

November 1, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this

You are exactly right South Peach. The problem with most of the people on this blog are that they are too lazy to look into anything on their own they just go with whatever they’re told….sort of like the Obama voters.

By S.C.

November 1, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this

Can anyone tell me what Karen’s educational background is comprised of?

By HAM

November 1, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this

I voted 2 weeks ago - I don’t think Ms. Handel should be blamed because of the large number of people who choose to wait till the last week to vote.

By matt

November 1, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

Sally,

I do think for myself, I don’t allow the “hide the truth” mainstream media control my life and decide what and how I think. I don’t listen to Rush, he’s a pompous a$$.

As far as Iraqi baby killing government — yes, I don’t agree with all that was done in the war; however, I also don’t think we should sit down to a table with the nut jobs of the world that do nothing but threaten their neighbors with annialation.

One last thing — thanks for reading. B***

By Relwold

November 1, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this

Simply another attempt by obama-acorn to subvert the election process.

By UncleTom

November 1, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this

* My fellow Republicans, keep in mind that Obamas is a house negro. He will help us keep the field negroes in check. Nothing has changed. Relax. *

By dawgmom

November 1, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this

I really am amazed at all the complaints about EARLY VOTING. Election day, supposedly, is the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November. I am old enough to have experienced many elections where, on ELECTION DAY, 8-10 hours were spent in line. If you are really that upset with how much time is spent in early voting (which goes against the guidelines of ELECTION DAY), then just submit an absentee ballot and don’t blame anyone in government for the “waste” of your precious time!! Once again, an example of “victim mentality”. Grow up people!

By dawgmom

November 1, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this

I really am amazed at all the complaints about EARLY VOTING. Election day, supposedly, is the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November. I am old enough to have experienced many elections where, on ELECTION DAY, 8-10 hours were spent in line. If you are really that upset with how much time is spent in early voting (which goes against the guidelines of ELECTION DAY), then just submit an absentee ballot and don’t blame anyone in government for the “waste” of your precious time!! Once again, an example of “victim mentality”. Grow up people!

By this is all BS

November 1, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this

Hey Marty I am a college graduate w/Masters in Finance. I have a lot of friends that have college degrees and some that don’t. I have news for you Marty most of my friends that don’t have college degrees have more sense/knowledge than the ones with college degrees. Some people are educated above their own intelligence. Does that sound familiar?

By Brad Patch

November 1, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this

The majority of comments are crude and reflect very poorly upon the writers. Exercising our responsibility to vote in a presidential election every four years is something others in this world yearn for. Oh how we all hate to be inconvenienced. I waited along with many others, some elderly, and not one word of complaint.

By SweetGA32

November 1, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

See, this is what happens when FEMALE Republicans take away the “state’s democratic process”. They become THEIR OWN DIVAS (and you cannot tell them a darn thing)…hence, Handel, her henchwoman, and CREW. Handel ran a campaign as to what she would do to improve the Secretary of State’s Office - mainly Elections and Investigations. Does she NOT REALIZE that MAYBE, just MAYBE some Democrats help vote her in – based on her “INFORMED PLATFORM” - Not knowing what a discombobulated régime she was ready to spring on the citizens of Georgia.

So-WHAT, “it’s up to each county” as the HEAD of the Elections – Handel should have seen this coming; or at least her Inspector General or her Elections Director. Did she have procedures and training in place? Oh, I forgot this is HER FIRST GENERAL ELECTION and she has FIRED or RAN OFF all the EXPERIENCED folks who could have helped her. So of course, you could NOT see this coming.

A HEAD is only as good as its BODY and right now, you have N-O-B-O-D-Y in place that could have helped you. So WOMAN-UP and admit YOU DON’T HAVE A CLUE! …and you want to run for GOVERNOR (gag me with a smurf)! I just have two words for ya – As our next president so eloquently puts it, “THREE DAYS”!

By justmyopinion

November 1, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this

We have already voted and waited in line for 2 1/2 hours in the cold rain (Friday, 10-24-08). It wasn’t fun and it was inconvenient but like some on this blog have said early voting has been going on for several weeks and people should have gone then. If you’ve heard the news at all we all knew that the turnout was going to be historical and it would be a good idea to either vote early or stand in long lines. That’s the way it is and it’s certainly not Handel’s fault. Quit whining and stand in line on Tuesday or go home.

By Nard

November 1, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this

I can’t wait for the next election when I can vote against the inept Karen Handel. She is clearly attempting to affect the outcome of the election by suppressing the voting surge that is sure to favor Obama and other democratic candidates. It’s strange that with all Handel’s and Purdue’s talk about the legal hurdles to Saturday voting, Coweta County was able the hold weekend voting. The Republicans are up to their dirty tricks again!

By Shawn

November 1, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this

The reason many did not go vote before this week in Clayton County is prior to 27 Oct you only had one place to go - the old courthouse in Jonesboro, during business hours. Doesn’t do you much good if you can’t get the time off to do so (in my case puts voting place 22 miles from job by surface streets) without risking needed employment. The early voting locations this week were more numerous and had longer hours, yet were jammed up. That was the complaint.

Also, does it really help the discussion to first yell at eh people making statements in an insulting manner, then follow up with subjective comments about what candidates will or will not do? Tends to make people ignore everything you just said.

Here’s a really simple solution to voting: Move the election to the weekend. By running the vote on Sat and Sunday everyone’s religion gets a chance to vote while observing their faith, and there is far less effect on business and work attendance.

By Brian

November 1, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this

I doesn’t matter if people did not use the mail option for voting, and chose instead to wait and vote in person. There is something fundamental about walking into a ballot box and making your selection. With this historic turnout, exceptions should be made.

This should not be political. Unfortunately, I feel as - even as a republican, Ms. Handle is politicizing the voting process. That is extremely unfortunate and the people will have a choice to make if she runs for re-election or for governor.

By justmyopinion

November 1, 2008 9:12 PM | Link to this

That sounds like a great idea Shawn (weekend voting). As far as the only early polling place in Clayton County being the courthouse, that sounds like a county issue and not something that Handel would control. Good ole Clayton county. I think Fulton, Dekalb and Gwinnett had at least 5-6 places.

By Gajeepdude

November 1, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this

Quit whining! Good grief, you ought to be glad they allowed you to vote early at all! They should disallow it, just more opportunities for voter fraud which I’m sure is going to be rampid in this election. Go stand in line on Tuesday and deal with it like we’ve always done every other year.

By Gajeepdude

November 1, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this

Quit whining! Good grief, you ought to be glad they allowed you to vote early at all! They should disallow it, just more opportunities for voter fraud which I’m sure is going to be rampid in this election. Go stand in line on Tuesday and deal with it like we’ve always done every other year.

By nikip

November 1, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this

Since when is it the Secretary of State’s job to sling mud at other elected officials? Her press release sounds like a particularly nasty campaign ad — full of accusations and venom — not a statement from an administrative official whose job is to run an open, fair, accessible election. I didn’t vote for Handel, but I never imagined she would be this bad at her job, and poisonous besides.

By Handel aint to bright

November 1, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this

For those of you who don’t know Karen Handel only has a high school diploma. She is a prime example of the dumbing down of the GOP in the south and to some extent nationwide. The GOP’s top contender for Governor Casey Cagle and GOP Congressman Lynn Westmoreland lack college degrees. The Georgia Republican Party doesn’t want the people of Georgia to be educated. They want to teach Georgia’s kids that dinosaurs existed 4,000 years ago and that it’s reasonable to believe the Earth is less than 10,000 years old. GA GOP=Ignorance

By RJ

November 1, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this

Karen Handel…Your poor performance and failure to accept repsonsibility has sealed your political fate in Georgia. Plan and hope as you may, but when your term expires you won’t be able to get elected dog catcher in Georgia.

By D

November 1, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this

I truly believe that we need to make the Secretary of State’s office non-partisan. It is obvious that Ms. Handel is too overly partisan to handle this position which should be party-neutral.

By Trudy

November 1, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this

Until there is transparency, it is possible for the machines to be compromised. Huckleberry, you may want to consider joining a conversation of people on your lower level of intellect.

By GaJeepGal

November 1, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this

GaJeepDude, I’m sure that’s what you would like because it would mean people would be in line for 15-20 hours just to vote. And that would benefit McCain because people won’t and can’t stand in line for that long. And the voter fraud cry again? PLEASE! Somebody is really going to come in and try to vote as Mickey Mouse, and they’ll have the id to prove it, right. Why don’t you do some research and get your facts straight instead of letting Boortz/Hannity and the other bozos spoon feed you and tell you how to vote. It scares me to think that someone like you could be reproducing.

By D

November 1, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this

I think the problems are coming from both sides in this situation. As I mentioned earlier, Karen Handel is way too political to effectively do this job — rather than spending time to improve the process by ensuring that counties are doing their job, she’s spending money to advertise on the radio about how you can get out of voter id by voting by mail. I am very disappointed by news reports I heard about people accusing the state of trying to disenfranchise voters by the waits in line — indicating that the long lines were trying to keep certain groups from voting is just insane. It took me about 45 minutes to vote when I went on October 13. Waiting until the last minute is what caused the backups, nothing the counties did.

By this is all BS

November 1, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this

doesn’t anyone wonder what was said by these democrats to solicit such a response from Handel? Of course that part is missing from Kookman’s article. GaJeepGal who is spoon feeding you? MSNBC, NBC, CBS, moveon.org., and the likes? How would people having to stand in line for 15-20 hours benefit McCain, **GaJeepGal? You my friend shouldn’t reproduce.

By mark

November 1, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this

When Handel comes up for relection get her out vote for someone else its not too much to ask of someone for help and she blames the people they just wanted to vote what is so bad about that..You want win Ms. Handel next time how much longer hopefully soon, People just remember this deal and next time get her out..she is really not very helpful and really rude as well..okaY enough said Im proud of all the Georgians who got out and voted early and all on Tuesday as well no matter who you choose its important to get out and vote…

By To Logical for Govt Work

November 1, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this

While I wish we could stop the blame game based on party affiliation, on liberal or conservative and other opposites, those of you who feel the Secretary of State needs her knuckles rapped are quite correct. It became very clear early in the year that there was a surge in voter registrations. By July, there was no doubt that Georgia’s active voter registration rolls had doubled. Our esteemed Secretary of State should have at that point realized that the upcoming November election was going to require massive changes in procedures. Were I the Secretary of State, in July I would have immediately 1) recommended the larger counties in the state petition the US Justice Department for (a) Saturday Advance Voting and (b) Extended Hours for both advance and election day hours, given a support letter to go with the petition and provided any technical assistance needed to ensure the USJD acted favorably on the request. 2) assisted counties with the acquisition of additional voting equipment, especially the AccuVote machines. Having additional AccuVote units increases the number of voters whose registration can be simultaneously verified thus reducing wait times and having more electronic voting machines doubles the reduction in wait times. But then that’s why I am too logical for govt work…

By Ralph C. Noble

November 1, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this

Let’s face it … Handel is so out of touch with what the right thing is to do. This is a woman who created a committee at the Secretary of State’s Office charged with coming up with a way to reward loyal employees. She turned down EVERY good idea only to come up with her own: Reward employees by letting them have their photos taken with Handel. So obviously this is a woman looking out for her own career and not for those who put her in office.

By this is all BS

November 1, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this

Sorry Mark what did you just say??

By Ralph C. Noble

November 1, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this

Let’s face it … Handel is so out of touch with what the right thing is to do. This is a woman who created a committee at the Secretary of State’s Office charged with coming up with a way to reward loyal employees. She turned down EVERY good idea only to come up with her own: Reward employees by letting them have their photos taken with Handel. So obviously this is a woman looking out for her own career and not for those who put her in office.

By B

November 1, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this

I had to repeat a post so appropriately made by Phil so Phil I apologize for plagerism:As a taxpayer in this state, it doesn’t matter the party. Sec of State Handel was warned months ago to be prepared given Georgia had close to million new voters. She and the biggest counties should prepared better by having more location, more equipment, better trained staff and longer hours.

To brag about people having to stand 8 to 10 hours in line as glitch and democratic party is grandstanding is total BS.

She should ashamed of Georgia making the National News for the long lines and problems and once again being the laughing stock of the country.

By B

November 1, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this

I had to repeat a post so appropriately made by Phil so Phil I apologize for plagerism:As a taxpayer in this state, it doesn’t matter the party. Sec of State Handel was warned months ago to be prepared given Georgia had close to million new voters. She and the biggest counties should prepared better by having more location, more equipment, better trained staff and longer hours.

To brag about people having to stand 8 to 10 hours in line as glitch and democratic party is grandstanding is total BS.

She should ashamed of Georgia making the National News for the long lines and problems and once again being the laughing stock of the country.

By Too Logical for Govt Work

November 1, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this

ONE MORE THING YA’LL: Yes hindsight is B…., let’s all stop b-witching and use our energy to lobby our individual county election boards to extend the hours on Tuesday… Even though we have already voted (I am presuming all of you have…), we can do the right thing - in the name jof good - and help make sure all our friends and neighbors get the opportunity to do the same.

By BD

November 1, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this

I voted for Kathy Handel, and I stood in line for 6 hours - and reading her letter on “grandstanding” just forced me to donate the max allowed to whomever runs against her in the next election. She failed in her job, and she has failed the people in the great state of Georgia. Ms. Handel - you should be ashamed!

By Jim BOB

November 1, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this

Why dont you blame Obama supporters for the long lines since they are bussing in blacks and mexicans from Florida and south carolina to cheat on the ballot boxes.

By Jim BOB

November 1, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this

Why dont you blame Obama supporters for the long lines since they are bussing in blacks and mexicans from Florida and south carolina and Alabama to stuff the ballot boxes.

By Jim BOB

November 1, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this

Why dont you blame Obama supporters for the long lines since they are bussing in blacks and mexicans from Florida and south carolina and Alabama to stuff the ballot boxes.

By Jim BOB

November 1, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this

Why dont you blame Obama supporters for the long lines since they are bussing in blacks and mexicans from Florida and south carolina and Alabama to stuff the ballot boxes.

By SouthPeach

November 1, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this

What a bunch of cry babies!!!!! This is so ridiculous it is funny…LOL!!!!

By Jamal

November 1, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this

Damned if you do, damned if you don’t.

I hate to say this, but us Georgians have had one of the most open processes with opportunities to vote for basically the past month. If you have procrastinated, that is your own fault. Maybe the poll workers would like a day off; maybe we shouldn’t be spending more tax dollars when people have been lazy and waited until the last minute. The state of Georgia has to be cleared through the US Justice Dept to make ANY changes, as minute as changing a polling location.

Personally, I voted for Obama, but I did so 3 WEEKS ago. I may not like it because it could hurt our turnout, but give it up people!

By Jamal

November 1, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this

Damned if you do, damned if you don’t.

I hate to say this, but us Georgians have had one of the most open processes with opportunities to vote for basically the past month. If you have procrastinated, that is your own fault. Maybe the poll workers would like a day off; maybe we shouldn’t be spending more tax dollars when people have been lazy and waited until the last minute. The state of Georgia has to be cleared through the US Justice Dept to make ANY changes, as minute as changing a polling location.

Personally, I voted for Obama, but I did so 3 WEEKS ago. I may not like it because it could hurt our turnout, but give it up people!

By GA Newcomer

November 1, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this

I moved here from Oregon about 1 yr ago and considering this mess wish I was still voting there where every election is vote by mail. Secretary Handel should resign immediately. Not only has she knowingly helped to surpress votes, she has sullied this state’s reputation in the nation’s eyes. Move over Katherine Harris! There’s someone new to take your place in the hallowed halls of dirty politics.

By Joe

November 1, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this

I’m sure the dems want the polls to stay open longer in hopes for more voter fraud that they are traditionaly known for. It’s really sad that Franklin and Lewis could stoop as low as they do….

By EDNA

November 1, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this

KAREN HANDEL IS A LITTLE LIKE SARAH PALIN.A DING DONG.THEY DONT CARE IF PEOPLE IN THIS STATE ARE STARVING OR DONT HAVE JOBS.

By EDNA

November 1, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this

KAREN HANDEL IS A LITTLE LIKE SARAH PALIN.A DING DONG.THEY DONT CARE IF PEOPLE IN THIS STATE ARE STARVING OR DONT HAVE JOBS.

By Independent Voter

November 1, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this

Karen Handel is an absolute joke. She manages the SOS office the same way she tried to manage the election process, “It’s my way or No Way.” She’s an embarassment to the entire State of Georgia. She and her office has known since last year this election was going to be unprecedented to any elections we have ever had. If she thinks the number of earlier voting will lessen the lines on Nove. 4th, she should think again. She and her office could have done more to help offset the long wait in lines across the state for early voting.

One last thing, since she’s been SOS, the office’s customer service left with the last administration. The Corporations Division has gone to !@#$ under her leadership and it appears the employees morale is completely shot throught the entire agency. Oh well, so much for good leadership. I’ll remember all of this when her first term is up.

By Valerie

November 1, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this

“Secretary Handel is extremely pleased with early voting turnout and how the overwhelming majority of Georgia’s county election offices prepared for and managed the early voting process.”

It’s very easy to say that a majority of counties had an easy time with early voting. There are 159 counties in GA and about, what, 140 of those are rural, with small populations. The problems are in the heavily populated urban areas. Gee, I wonder which way each area will vote…?

By Smells

November 1, 2008 11:04 PM | Link to this

It’s the government, what do you expect? They can’t properly administer the voting process, start name calling and otherwise acting like a bunch of immature brats, because, now get this, — IT’S THE GOVERNMENT—-….and you fools, yes fools, want to turn over healthcare to the same entity?? Stupid is as stupid does….

By Nixed

November 1, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this

This creature flagged me as a non citizen. Funny how only the democrats are flagged. I am going to shwo my passport on Monday, and then go to the small claims court and file a suit for my lost wages for having to take time off work to do this. I am going to file against this awful person personally, not the office. I think all of us under her attempt to disenfranchise should do this.

By b6542

November 1, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this

Bull rushing the polls and crying foul…..

By Mad Dad

November 1, 2008 11:15 PM | Link to this

Isn’t this the same Karen Handel that told the RNC during the convention that the rumors of large voter registrations were a myth in Georgia. She said that because her office was actively denying voter registration forms to democratic groups according to several news account.

By Bill

November 1, 2008 11:16 PM | Link to this

I work downtown and agree that people had plenty of time to vote without having to wait in long lines (10 mins. for me 3 weeks ago). My friends and family back in NJ would love to have this opportunity of early voting and think we are a idiots - I agree!

By mamaj

November 1, 2008 11:51 PM | Link to this

Ian, where have you been that you don’t know that voting machines can be rigged to favor certain candidates. guess you don’t watch CNN much do you?—or you would know that they have had people on to explain how it is actually done, with no way to trace it.

By Paul from Milton

November 2, 2008 12:03 AM | Link to this

Ha Ha Ha…half the people mouthing off here won’t bother to vote in 2010. Georgia is a red state and Ms. Handel will be reelected.

By Kesia

November 2, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this

Eveyone does not have the flexibility of having been able to vote at the start of early voting. Therefore, if they we were going to have the option of early voting the convenience of more than one location and longer hours should have taken place prior to Oct 27th. Contrary to popular belief some of us work real 9-5 and have bosses that AREN’T very understanding. And since I need my job, asking for timeoff to early vote WASN’T even an option.

So how about you stop being so judgemental bcse everyone’s life/situation is different and doesn’t offer the same flexibility. For those that had the flexibilty and didn’t utilize it so be it but it’s not fair to critize those who couldn’t go early.

By SweetGa32

November 2, 2008 12:21 AM | Link to this

All she needs to do, is loosen that tease at the root, ease off the AquaNet and take some Public Administrative courses online and she will be fine as our next Gov in 2010!!!!! NOT!

For her to do the blame game was the dumbest move for a government official. In Government Ethics 101, she would have learned there are SOME THINGS you have to bite your tongue on and let us bloggers to the “witching, moaning, groaning and blaming” - that’s what we do…lol

By Chris in Marietta

November 2, 2008 12:34 AM | Link to this

Handel, along with Gov Purdue, are setting up the Republicans for a very bad Tuesday - and more of them to come. When you have a neighbor state, with a Republican in charge, do the right thing and expand the opportunities for folks to vote it shows that Handel and Purdue lack class and are nothing but shrill political hacks trying hard to help their party.

The message on Tuesday will be LOUD and CLEAR…it’s time for CHANGE…REAL CHANGE.

By Dontcha Wish You Had Roy Barnes

November 2, 2008 1:01 AM | Link to this

Handel has bumbled this. Shouldn’t be a surprise. Sonny Perdue has bumbled Georgia schools, economy and government!

By OF

November 2, 2008 1:08 AM | Link to this

If Obama wasn’t running the Democrats would have raise Hexx about the length of the early voting. When the Democrats started campaigning two years ago they turned me off. Obama will be Nancy Polosi’s goffer if he is elected. Especialy if he doesn’t have his tele prompter.

By ittibittinurse

November 2, 2008 1:22 AM | Link to this

I think Handel has done her job. You black folks, liberals, and democrats are p** off because you can commit more voter fraud because she is following state law and not allowing any voting over the weekend and on the Monday before the election. Georgia started early voting September 22, 2008, and advertised this to all citizens. It is not her fault that you did not get off your a* and go vote early. I agree with Jon, if you could lay on the couch and watch BET, MTV and CNN and vote…you would still find something to b*** about concerning the elecion…Shut up and vote or sit at home and don’t you crybabies!!

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

November 2, 2008 1:22 AM | Link to this

LoL? What the hell are you laughing at? I went out to North Lake and voted Friday. The line wrapped around the building and it took three hours to get in to vote. Once inside, it was easily seen that there was a woeful paucity of voting machines. it was apparent to anyone over the age of three weeks that the long lines, lack of voting machines and sorry performance by Handel were all intended to discourage people from voting. Didn’t work! Nobody dropped out. Come Wednesday morning there’s going to be a big change in this state and in this nation. The Karen handels of the world can go to hell! Your time impeding is up!

By Shay

November 2, 2008 1:27 AM | Link to this

This chick is an idiot. Please explain to me why some Clayton County locations had less than 50 voting machines but they supposedly have 500 ready for Tuesday. And if she is so great at her job, why didn’t she adjust for the lines prior to this week? During the previous week, the lines were a reflection of things to come. An efficient person would have been proactive and placed a request for additional machines or hours. It did not make any sense for people to stand in line for hours on end. Sounds REPUBLICAN to me!! All I can say is PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE make sure that you get in line on Tuesday. It doesn’t matter if you get there at 6:59, your vote will be counted!!!

By ittibittinurse

November 2, 2008 1:28 AM | Link to this

The only people complaining and being paranoid about the Georgia voting process are the African Americans, the liberals, and the Democrats. Handel is doing her job and she is following state law…which does not allow voting over the weekend and the Monday before November 4th. Georgia started early voting weeks ago, where were all you complainers when early voting started. I agree with jon, if the voting machines were taken to your homes and brought to you while you sat on your behinds… you would still complain about the voting process…the comments I have read in this paper and seen on tv are typical of people who are always victims and always want to have everything catered to their own personal needs…get over it and go vote..or sit at home watch BET,CNN, and WSBTV…it’s your choice…it is a privilege to vote…not a right..remember that and stop complaining about the process(long lines, voting machines, and poll workers)…grow up!!

By Jim

November 2, 2008 1:50 AM | Link to this

liberals will cry fowl at any cost. Lets just do away with early voting and vote on election day as was originally intended and there will be no issue - happy now? Blacks will always find fault with America no matter what. They will never be happy, but they only have themselves to blame.

By Move

November 2, 2008 2:13 AM | Link to this

I’d like to challenge Ms. Handel’s eligibility to vote.

And for those of you who are “scared” of the upcoming Obama Administration, why don’t you move somewhere in the Middle East, where there are plenty of conservative, religious governments that share your world view.

Oh, and come Wednesday when we have a President-elect Obama, don’t you dare criticize an incoming president in a time of war. It’s unpatriotic and is harmful to our troops.

Obama ‘08!!!

By Phillip

November 2, 2008 2:30 AM | Link to this

Why don’t we just have 24/7 voting all year long. That would certainly please the Democrats and give them plenty of time to search the far corners of this great state to find people to vote on the democrat ticket.

By Elizabeth

November 2, 2008 5:15 AM | Link to this

I thought Handel’s reasoning behind not extending hours was reasonable. Taking the swipe at Democrats was not.

By joe

November 2, 2008 5:57 AM | Link to this

Stupid Democrats. Enough said.

By Me

November 2, 2008 6:16 AM | Link to this

Grow up everyone. Blaming someone because the majority waited until the last week to vote is just another example of what this country has become. Election day is Nov. 4. There should be no early voting. Voting on the week-end wouldn’t work either. People would complain about that too. Church on Sundays and grocery shopping on Saturdays, washing, cleaning, take children to events, etc. Just shows what a country of complainers we have become. Be thankful you have the privilege to vote at all. Don’t blame others for your own mistakes.

By LARRY

November 2, 2008 6:24 AM | Link to this

Early voting has been going on for some time now it did not start on Friday morning. Get over yourself Georgia state law is plain ad clear here. So stop blaming someone else because you sat at home watching the WWE or whatever. She is doing her job so stop whining because it is not being catered to YOUR WANTS!!! Be an adult and follow the rules.

By Rick Cone

November 2, 2008 6:54 AM | Link to this

Elections in the state of Georgia are the responsibilities for each County. If there are issues at the county level, that is where criticism needs to start. As a Gwinnett county voter, I can’t understand once long lines were going to be an issue, open polls earlier. By not opening polls until 9:30, it allowed huge lines to form. Everyone and there grandmother, if not working, could get there by 9:30. If the polls had opened at 7, as they will on Tuesday, it would have processed much of the line before the big rush came after parents dropped there kids off for school.

By Tyre Hester

November 2, 2008 6:59 AM | Link to this

The LAWS of the state of Georgia mean nothing to democrats. The law is the law- get over it! They already got the cross checking throw out in court so illegals can vote. They should be happy.

By UGH

November 2, 2008 7:04 AM | Link to this

ittibittinurse

And to think with those type of comments and your way of thinking that you are a NURSE of all professions. I feel sad for the people that have your racist azz at their bedside giving them care.

For two consecutive terms the Republicans stole the election and this was ok, BUT now that Obama may win based on a mass number of people coming out to utilize THEIR PRIVILIDGE we are now cheating. IMAGINE THAT!!!! We don’t have to cheat… KARMA IS JUST COMING BACK AROUND TO YOU REPUBLICANS!!!!!!!

By Alan

November 2, 2008 7:14 AM | Link to this

Karen Handel - the Katherine Harris of Georgia - nuff said

By Alan

November 2, 2008 7:18 AM | Link to this

Karen Handel - the Katherine Harris of Georgia - nuff said

By Marcy

November 2, 2008 7:21 AM | Link to this

The early voting, besides absentee balloting, is new and I believe Handel is doing the best possible job! Many of us have stood in line after the polls have closed on election day to vote. Please accept the fact that on election day, the lines will be normal due to so many of us who voted early. You people need to be calm down and let the process work!

By DB

November 2, 2008 7:31 AM | Link to this

Dear Karen Handel….brush up your resume, you’re the next to go!

By Paul

November 2, 2008 7:31 AM | Link to this

It’s two things. The microwave generation (I want it in 30 seconds) and the government is in charge of it. Where were you in early October when I voted guess what no lines. If we could just get everyone to just vote once the line wouldn’t be so long.

By george

November 2, 2008 7:36 AM | Link to this

I have voted in every election for the past 16 years and I am a citizen of the United States through birth as were many of my ancestors. Somehow this year mrs. Handels office sent me a letter saying that since I am not a citizen of the US, I can’t vote. The letter goes on to put on me the burden of proof that I am a citizen. I don’t think this would have happened if I was a republican.

By BFD

November 2, 2008 7:37 AM | Link to this

PEOPLE WHAT IS THE BFD? THERE IS MORE THAN ONE WAY TO VOTE. YOU COULD HAVE MAILED THAT CRAP IN. YOU COULD DO IT ON “ELECTION DAY” HI THAT’S WHY IT’S CALLED ELECTION DAY. YOU DON’T HAVE TO STAND IN LINE FOR HOURS DAYS IN ADVANCE. AND FOR THOSE WHO STOOD IN 2-3-4 HOUR LINES, CLEARLY YOU DON’T HAVE ANYTHING BETTER TO DO - GET A JOB!!

BY THE EAY JOHN LEWIS AND THE REST OF THE PREJUDICIAL RACEBAITING DEMS DON’T GET MY VOTE!! OUR LOCAL GOVT SUCKS DONKEY NUTS!! SOMEONE PLEASE RUN AGAINST THESE FOOLS!!!

By gadem

November 2, 2008 7:46 AM | Link to this

George, that is weird…however I think Handel in doing the best job that she can. I don’t think it is a white/black, democrat/republican issue. I live in Cobb and stood in line for 3 hours…it is just one of those things…it is well worth it.

By jim

November 2, 2008 8:03 AM | Link to this

Handel should get the Catherine Harris Award. Harris was the overly sensitive Secretary of State in Fl. when Bush “defeated” Gore. Harris was in over her head and it appears that Handel is too. By the way, anyone notice that Fl. extended their voting hours this time to accomodate the crowds? And yes Ms. Handel, we know that Ga. has to apply to the feds for any voting change - The large crowds could and should have been anticipated and proper steps taken weeks or months ago. Nice job Ms. Secretary.

By Tim

November 2, 2008 8:11 AM | Link to this

I cannot believe all of these people whining and complaining about the early voting process. First, any of you could have requested an absentee ballot by mail and voted in the privacy of your own home. No lines, duh! Second, you had a month and a half to vote early. It was not necessary to wait until the weekend before the election, especially as most of you had already decided how you were going to vote. Finally, have you ever heard of a quaint little notion called voting on the official election day, November 4? Grow up people. Voter suppression, my foot!

By Wayne

November 2, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this

Ignorance is bliss.. First… The COUNTIES have to request the extended time.. there are rules and laws that have to be followed. I understand that it is NOT important to most people.. so if you want to complain.. go after your County Election Board. Second.. The Deomocratic Party.. has been against extending voting times.. why? The people they DONT want to vote have jobs and pay taxes. Sad but true..

By HappyEarlyVoter

November 2, 2008 8:29 AM | Link to this

You all are CRAZY! My wife & I both voted 40 days ago and were in and out within 10 minutes. It was great. Most of you that are complaining have waited until the very last minute. If you would have been responsible you would not have had this problem. Early voters had 45 days to do this, it is your own fault. Typical Democrats, you’ll complain about everything!

By jethro

November 2, 2008 8:30 AM | Link to this

This is bull, and the lying Democrats know it. You could have voted 45 days before the election. I voted the first day absentee. People like Shirley Franklin and John Lewis are bigots. Remember the ad about vote for the Democrat or you stand the chance of being water hosed and chased by dogs like the 50’s and 60’s. We as a people deserve better that this and I am glad I don’t live in racial bigotry Atlanta and John Lewis’s zone. All they do is race bait and blame white people when the majority of crime in Lewis’s zone is black on black, the Atlanta city council is majority black and look at the problems they have.

This is a sham and the Democrats know it. You put fear and doubt in the minds of people before the election so you can push your agenda when your candidates loss.

If anybody stole an election it has always been stolen, listen to the report on channel 2 where dead people voted and Mickey Mouse register to vote. I bet they were Democrat…..

By Eleanor

November 2, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this

First of all, Handel is to represent and be fair to ALL voters, not just her Republican buddies. Incompetence reigns in this State from Perdue down to Richardson; from Westmoreland; from Handel and yes Kathy Cox is incompetent also. Unfortunately the majority put them in office; now it is time for us little guys to move them out; and hopefully it starts Tuesday when Martin kicks Chambliss out. I’m in my 70’s and have never seen such incompetence in elected office as I have seen the last eight years.

By eazy

November 2, 2008 8:57 AM | Link to this

she is obviously playing politics. We need to goe after her in the next cycle.

By Cracker

November 2, 2008 8:58 AM | Link to this

Another tired example of people asking for special treatment because of their race. It’s just a taste of things to come under Obama…

By Republicans R Crooks

November 2, 2008 8:59 AM | Link to this

Who cares what that skanky kuunt is or is not please with? A mind is a terrible thing to waste, and this mere high school graduate has clearly wasted what little mind it ever had. I personally will be pleased if she is indited by a federal grand jury for vote tampering, denying the right to vote to American citizens, and conspiracy to rig the election in favor of her choosen candidate, imho. I will urge the maximum Federal sentence for her and all her co conspirators. Remember, there is no parole from federal prison…..

By Sowegajim

November 2, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this

Handel: you gonna get voted out office next election and you deserve your fate!

By Andrew

November 2, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this

Reguardless of the party, what’s happening at the the polls is uncall for. This has nothing to do with race or anything else. This goes to show how the leaders of Georgia cannot lead. This election was going to be the most important one in history. Everyone knew this except the leaders at the top. What’s happening now is the product of poor planning, and now we get a good dose of let’s past the buck. Well, the buck should stop with us, the public. As long as continue to except the things that our leaders are doing, the longer they will continue to do it. We need to demand that they fix the problems, that’s why we pay them!

By slaughdog

November 2, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this

Karen Handel is a Queen BIATCH**.She is running the SOS like she has run everything else she is been in charge of in the past. When she was Chair of the Fulton County Commission, it was her way or no way—-she paved the way for small communites in the county wanting to become ciites themselves—look at the problems these cities are having now.

Karen HANDEL, Katherine HARRIS, & Sarah PALIN are perfect examples of women of the GOP with no leadership skills, or education warranted for the jobs they aspire for. I guess inbreds still rule the GOP in the south.

By larry

November 2, 2008 9:36 AM | Link to this

Handel is only doing her job as legally provided for in the state laws and constitution.Its time that the people take responsibity for their procrastination and lack of knowledge of the different avenues to vote.That’s the difference between being a informed African American and being a ignorant N****-face it folks,you re-elacted Marion Barry as mayor of Washington D.C after he was caught on video, smoking crack with a hooker in a hotel room.We white folks don”t have to keep you down,because your ignorance and your dependence on the government will always keep you enslaved to the Democratic party and do you really think that Obama will be your president?its a fact that blacks only make up 14% of the population,so the only way he will be elected is by the white vote- so that will make him the white mans candidate,because once again brothers you must face the music that the white man still controls the election no matter who wins,so put that in your Al Sharpton Uncle Tom pipe And smoke it while you wait in line to get your government cheese like the government mules that you are.

By BOB

November 2, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this

Remember standing in line for 6 or more hours when Handel comes up for re-election

By larry

November 2, 2008 9:41 AM | Link to this

Handel is only doing her job as legally provided for in the state laws and constitution.Its time that the people take responsibity for their procrastination and lack of knowledge of the different avenues to vote.That’s the difference between being a informed African American and being a ignorant N****-face it folks,you re-elacted Marion Barry as mayor of Washington D.C after he was caught on video, smoking crack with a hooker in a hotel room.We white folks don”t have to keep you down,because your ignorance and your dependence on the government will always keep you enslaved to the Democratic party and do you really think that Obama will be your president?its a fact that blacks only make up 14% of the population,so the only way he will be elected is by the white vote- so that will make him the white mans candidate,because once again brothers you must face the music that the white man still controls the election no matter who wins,so put that in your Al Sharpton Uncle Tom pipe And smoke it while you wait in line to get your government cheese like the government mules that you are.

By jp

November 2, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this

ok, so who do we blame for the long lines that were their two weeks ago in Dekalb County? Yes early voting did not start on friday but the problem with the long lines has been present for over a month in Dekalb and probably Fulton.

What Handle did not do was provide enough polling places. She grossly mismanaged the issue and frankly if you listen to her speak, she is an embarassment to the GOP. She needs to go, I’m sure theirs someone else who could do her job. I’d do it, but the job doesn’t pay enough.

By larry

November 2, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

why does it bother you to stand in line for 5 hours to vote,when you are so used to standing in line to get your food stamps,government cheese,government assistance-aka welfare,or child support from one of yo’ Babies Daddy .Hell, if waiting in line with your hand out were a paid profession, all the Negroes and white democrats would be wealthy Republicans.You’ve been waiting a long time for your 40 acres and a mule and maybe eventually you’ll get it,but then again you’ll only blame your future failures on your inability to get the goverment to give you a free tractor instead of putting the mule to work.

By Say what?

November 2, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this

Ittibittinurse you, and several others, obviously have itty bitty brains!

By Les

November 2, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

Karen Handel is no Katherine Harris or Sarah Palin.

Karen Handel is a high school graduate from Maryland who is now the Georgia Secretary of State. She was not born in Georgia and was not raised in Georgia. The only reason she is here is because her “husband” recently got a job here. She has no substance and has no business running a Georgia institution. She lies about her credentials—folding Dan Quayle’s wife’s underwear is not legitimate government experience and neither is a low-level press office job at a huge corporation really “executive” experience.

Katherine Harris has an undergraduate degree from Agnes Scott College and a graduate degree from Harvard. Katherine Harris was born and raised in Florida.

Sarah Palin has a college degree from the University of Idaho and was raised in Alaska.

By chuck

November 2, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

Listen all you ignorant moron’s. All of you who are complaining have set on your lazy Rearends, like you always do waiting on someone to give you something for nothing. Well let me tell you, we are not toting the voting machines to you, and you have had 2 weeks to take care of this so apparently it’s not as important to you as you make out. you are just a bunch of whiners, complainers and losers. Go to Iraq and get on the front line. you would better serve us there. You will probably be the target of the first bomb, if you get your man elected.

By rb

November 2, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this

The comments proove 90% of you are idiots, do not understand the laws, and always think everything is a plot. Jamman please learn how to use a computer and hit the post button once. Got your point the first time. Voting is as much of a responsibilty as driving. To bad you don’t have to take a test to do it.

By mp

November 2, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

Maybe she’s bucking to be the /criminal secty of state proved to be in Florida when Bush stole the election with the help of Tom Feeney.

By David

November 2, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

There is no “right” to vote EARLY. Look it up. It is a great convenience that many people were able to vote early. Make your statement at the polls, nowhere else.

And as for John Lewis… does this guy ever shutup? Every single word out of his mouth is devoted to calling someone a racist. I think he has even accused the animals at the Atlanta Zoo of racism. Give him something to eat so we don’t have to listen to him talk anymore.

By tiredofthehype

November 2, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

I want to thank all of you who stood in those lines and believed the media hype about “if it’s this long in early voting, just think what it will be like on Tuesday”. Frankly I don’t expect much hassle since in Fulton county there will be 347 places to vote with a finite number of voters in each precinct as opposed to early voting where there were 3 places and then last week 6. I’m not a Republican but I can emphasise with Handel about the grandstanding.

By tiredofthehype

November 2, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this

I want to thank all of you who stood in those lines and believed the media hype about “if it’s this long in early voting, just think what it will be like on Tuesday”. Frankly I don’t expect much hassle since in Fulton county there will be 347 places to vote with a finite number of voters in each precinct as opposed to early voting where there were 3 places and then last week 6. I’m not a Republican but I can emphasise with Handel about the grandstanding.

By Dennis

November 2, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

This is rich coming from the woman who’s office did everything it could including outright lying to keep registration forms out of the hands of the Obama campaign in Georgia. She’s pathetic!

By Constructive Feedback

November 2, 2008 8:51 PM | Link to this

“Early Voting” had originally been designed as a relief valve for Election Day.

There is no where near the number of voting machines in place during this process as there are on election day. Nor is there the number of polling places.

IF high levels of Georgians choose to use this early voting period as their primary voting opportunity then the state legislature needs to mandate more machines and more polling places to be opened.

Logic tells me that if 30% of the people have already voted then that means that 30% fewer people will be heading to the polls on election day WHICH HAS MANY MORE MACHINES AND PLACES OPENED.

Thus this is a manufactured crisis that needs to be addressed by the LEGISLATURE.

By Constructive Feedback

November 2, 2008 9:10 PM | Link to this

“Early Voting” had originally been designed as a relief valve for Election Day.

There is no where near the number of voting machines in place during this process as there are on election day. Nor is there the number of polling places.

IF high levels of Georgians choose to use this early voting period as their primary voting opportunity then the state legislature needs to mandate more machines and more polling places to be opened.

Logic tells me that if 30% of the people have already voted then that means that 30% fewer people will be heading to the polls on election day WHICH HAS MANY MORE MACHINES AND PLACES OPENED.

Thus this is a manufactured crisis that needs to be addressed by the LEGISLATURE.

By Sissy Saxby

November 3, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this

The Republican governor of Florida extended voting hours. Thank God our Republican leaders here in Georgia put party first!

By Atlanta Grace

November 3, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

I would like to thank the office of the Secretary of State for Georgia, for always doing a great job with all our needs, an excellent and easy website, and a professional staff.

As a resident of Fulton County, Georgia for 23 years I would like to say how much I appreciate all your office does! Atlanta Grace

By john

November 3, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

Glad to hear that Madame Secretary is ticked off. If she blows this election in any way she will feel the wrath the next time her name is on a ballot.

By GodHatesTrash

November 3, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

Good news! Secretary of State Karen Handel just announced that, because so many white Georgians get uncomfortable and anxious being near black people, she is ordering the polls to be open on Wednesday November 5 for white voters only.

Let your neighbors know!