In Georgia, thousands of opposition supporters rally outside Parliament, protesting against government policies and calling for political reforms.

Georgia: Thousands Of Opposition Supporters Protest Outside Parliament

A 19-year-old first-time voter, Phoebe Bezabih, becomes the last voter to cast her ballot at Georgia's polling station. Initially, she went to the wrong polling station but arrived at exactly the last minute before the doors of the correct polling station ( in the suburbs of Atlanta) closed at 7 pm local time.&nbsp;

Bezabih told Reuters, “Well, I went to the wrong place at first. And then they told me to come here and it was only 15 minutes away, but I had 20 minutes left and I didn't think I was going to make it. So I drove over, sprinted over, and I made it inside. I was actually turned away initially, but she came back outside and she was like, ‘Since you're here at seven, you can come in’. And I came in and I voted. Everyone was really kind, supportive and helpful.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2024-results-live-updates-latest-news-on-2024-presidential-election-donald-trump-vs-kamala-harris-773440">LIVE | US Election 2024: Trump-198, Harris-99, early predictions show</a>

The 19-year-old voted for Democrat Kamala Harris as she aligned with her policies more than Republican Donald Trump. She told Reuters, “I mean, yes, I voted for (Democratic candidate) Kamala Harris just because I've seen both of their policies. And I think I align with Kamala's a little bit more. And I'm also not a fan of some of the ways that (Republican candidate Donald) Trump speaks about certain people and certain groups. So that's why I decided to vote for her.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2024-trump-makes-early-gains-in-exit-polls-dollar-strengthens-and-bitcoin-rises-773776">US Election 2024: Trump makes early gains in exit polls, dollar strengthens and bitcoin rises</a>

&nbsp;Former President Donald Trump won the battleground state of Georgia on Wednesday, returning its 16 electoral votes to the Republican party. However, Georgia has two democratic senators, and Trump’s winning proves the state has a Republican bent. The Associated Press declared Trump the winner of Georgia elections at 12:58 a.m. EST.&nbsp;AP VoteCast said that every 8 in 10 voters have cast their votes for former President Donald Trump and every 2 in 10 for Kamala Harris. This year, over four million voters cast their votes before Election Day in Georgia.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A 19-year-old first-time voter, Phoebe Bezabih, becomes the last voter to cast her ballot at Georgia's polling station. Initially, she went to the wrong polling station but arrived at exactly the last minute before the doors of the correct polling station ( in the suburbs of Atlanta) closed at 7 pm local time.

A 19-year-old first-time voter, Phoebe Bezabih, becomes the last voter to cast her ballot at Georgia's polling station. Initially, she went to the wrong polling station but arrived at exactly the last minute before the doors of the correct polling station ( in the suburbs of Atlanta) closed at 7 pm local time. Bezabih told Reuters, “Well, I went to the wrong place at first. And then they told me to come here and it was only 15 minutes away, but I had 20 minutes left and I didn't think I was going to make it. So I drove over, sprinted over, and I made it inside. I was actually turned away initially, but she came back outside and she was like, ‘Since you're here at seven, you can come in’. And I came in and I voted. Everyone was really kind, supportive and helpful.” Also Read | LIVE | US Election 2024: Trump-198, Harris-99, early predictions show The 19-year-old voted for Democrat Kamala Harris as she aligned with her policies more than Republican Donald Trump. She told Reuters, “I mean, yes, I voted for (Democratic candidate) Kamala Harris just because I've seen both of their policies. And I think I align with Kamala's a little bit more. And I'm also not a fan of some of the ways that (Republican candidate Donald) Trump speaks about certain people and certain groups. So that's why I decided to vote for her.” Also Read | US Election 2024: Trump makes early gains in exit polls, dollar strengthens and bitcoin rises Former President Donald Trump won the battleground state of Georgia on Wednesday, returning its 16 electoral votes to the Republican party. However, Georgia has two democratic senators, and Trump’s winning proves the state has a Republican bent. The Associated Press declared Trump the winner of Georgia elections at 12:58 a.m. EST. AP VoteCast said that every 8 in 10 voters have cast their votes for former President Donald Trump and every 2 in 10 for Kamala Harris. This year, over four million voters cast their votes before Election Day in Georgia. (With inputs from agencies)

US election: 19-year-old first-time voter becomes last to cast ballot in Georgia

As the United States general election nears the finishing line on Tuesday (Nov 5), there have been reports of 'bomb threats' of Russian origin, apart from bad weather and voting machine glitches that led to delays or extensions of polling time.

The email threats were described by authorities and the FBI as 'non-credible' amid reports that foreign adversaries including Russia and China were trying to disrupt the US election process.

Watch: US Election: Capitol Hill: Man With Flare Gun Arrested | Voting Extended In Pennsylvania County

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There have been some arrests, amid long lines that broke records in some states as Republican Donald Trump and Democrat Kamala Harris race for the White House in a supertight presidential election.

The bomb threats were received over email at some polling stations in the states of Michigan, Wisconsin and Georgia, leading to delays as law enforcement cleared the areas.

The FBI said the threats "appear to originate from Russian email domains" adding that no threat was credible thus far.

In Georgia, a key battleground state, the bomb threats were reported in Union City near the capital Atlanta, leading to the temporary shutting of two polling stations, CNN reported citing Nadine Williams, Fulton County Registration and Elections Director.

Similarly, a station was evacuated in the state's Gwinnett County for nearly an hour over a bomb threat, local police said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2024-stay-in-line-too-big-to-rig-exhorts-trump-is-he-already-crying-foul-773701">Also read: US Election 2024: 'STAY IN LINE - TOO BIG TO RIG', exhorts Trump. Is he already crying foul?</a> 
 
In Michigan, bomb threats that were initially reported to be serious were found non-credible after a probe, CNN quoted the state's Attorney General Dana Nessel as saying.

All bomb threats were traced to email IDs with domains registered in Russia.

Some polling stations saw delays due to voter ID checking, and malfunctioning voting machines in an election closely scrutinised, vote by vote.

Election officials are seeking to prevent a repeat of 2020 when Trump claimed fraud, which he appeared to repeat already through some social media posts on Tuesday.

CNN cited Cait Conley, senior adviser at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, as saying that there were no significant national-level incidents impacting election security.

The turnout has been impressive, with Michigan breaking the record that it already holds for the largest number of votes polled.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2024-donald-trump-and-his-india-connection-773647">Also read: US Election 2024: Donald Trump and his India connection</a> 
 
Sporadic incidents of violence and some arrests have been reported in Michigan, Wisconsin, Georgia and Washington DC, while voting machines malfunctioned in a Pennsylvania booth leading to an extension of polling time.

Trump also raised doubts about the conduct of elections.&nbsp;"A lot of talk about massive CHEATING in Philadelphia. Law enforcement coming!!!” he wrote in a post on his Truth Social platform.

Massive security is in place, including snipers and drones securing polling locations, apart from 350 National Guard personnel and monitoring of cyber threats.

Security has been beefed up and troops are on standby in the national capital Washington, DC and 18 states including some battlegrounds.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the United States general election nears the finishing line on Tuesday (Nov 5), there have been reports of 'bomb threats' of Russian origin, apart from bad weather and voting machine glitches that led to delays or extensions of polling time.

As the United States general election nears the finishing line on Tuesday (Nov 5), there have been reports of 'bomb threats' of Russian origin, apart from bad weather and voting machine glitches that led to delays or extensions of polling time. The email threats were described by authorities and the FBI as 'non-credible' amid reports that foreign adversaries including Russia and China were trying to disrupt the US election process. Watch: US Election: Capitol Hill: Man With Flare Gun Arrested | Voting Extended In Pennsylvania County × There have been some arrests, amid long lines that broke records in some states as Republican Donald Trump and Democrat Kamala Harris race for the White House in a supertight presidential election. The bomb threats were received over email at some polling stations in the states of Michigan, Wisconsin and Georgia, leading to delays as law enforcement cleared the areas. The FBI said the threats "appear to originate from Russian email domains" adding that no threat was credible thus far. In Georgia, a key battleground state, the bomb threats were reported in Union City near the capital Atlanta, leading to the temporary shutting of two polling stations, CNN reported citing Nadine Williams, Fulton County Registration and Elections Director. Similarly, a station was evacuated in the state's Gwinnett County for nearly an hour over a bomb threat, local police said. Also read: US Election 2024: 'STAY IN LINE - TOO BIG TO RIG', exhorts Trump. Is he already crying foul? In Michigan, bomb threats that were initially reported to be serious were found non-credible after a probe, CNN quoted the state's Attorney General Dana Nessel as saying. All bomb threats were traced to email IDs with domains registered in Russia. Some polling stations saw delays due to voter ID checking, and malfunctioning voting machines in an election closely scrutinised, vote by vote. Election officials are seeking to prevent a repeat of 2020 when Trump claimed fraud, which he appeared to repeat already through some social media posts on Tuesday. CNN cited Cait Conley, senior adviser at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, as saying that there were no significant national-level incidents impacting election security. The turnout has been impressive, with Michigan breaking the record that it already holds for the largest number of votes polled. Also read: US Election 2024: Donald Trump and his India connection Sporadic incidents of violence and some arrests have been reported in Michigan, Wisconsin, Georgia and Washington DC, while voting machines malfunctioned in a Pennsylvania booth leading to an extension of polling time. Trump also raised doubts about the conduct of elections. "A lot of talk about massive CHEATING in Philadelphia. Law enforcement coming!!!” he wrote in a post on his Truth Social platform. Massive security is in place, including snipers and drones securing polling locations, apart from 350 National Guard personnel and monitoring of cyber threats. Security has been beefed up and troops are on standby in the national capital Washington, DC and 18 states including some battlegrounds. (With inputs from agencies)

US election: 'Bomb threats of Russian origin', machine glitches delay polling in some states

US Election Result 2024: It is highly likely that the election results will be delayed well after the night of November 5 in the US, or into the next morning, as Democrat Kamala Harris and Republican Donald Trump are locked in what pollsters predicted would be a supertight race for president.

Unless that is, the pollsters were wrong and one candidate has a very clear, unassailable lead in the electoral college votes.

The majority mark for the Electoral College votes is 270, out of 538.

Watch: US Election Results: Will US Get Its First Woman President In Harris? | WION US Poll Coverage

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At the time of writing this, the Associated Press news agency is projecting more electoral college votes for Trump than Harris. The AP projections are considered near-official.

But these victories for Trump in states like Flordia, Indiana, Oklahoma, Kentucky, Tenessee, Mississipi, Alabama, West Virginia and South Carolina are too early to confirm a national trend and include traditionally Republican, or red states.

The final results will be known only when battleground states finish their voting, and this election cycle, there are seven of them out of the total 50: Pennsylvania, Georgia, North Carolina, Michigan, Arizona, Wisconsin and Nevada.

The early leads for Trump happened in 2020 too, only to dash his hopes and reject the outcome as his Democratic rival Joe Biden won the electoral college votes and became president.

This time, the Trump camp is keeping a 'wait and watch' approach. Earlier reports had said that Trump was not going to immediately address the press on election night.&nbsp;

Counting is already slow, as long lines in some polling stations meant that polling is going to continue late into the evening.

The counting of absentee ballots is going to be long and tedious, as identity checking and verification is going to take time.&nbsp;

In both in-person and postal ballots, there are chances of legal challenges too, complicating and delaying the process futher.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/trump-media-reports-192-million-loss-in-q3-revenue-declines-on-election-day-filing-773767">Also read: Trump Media reports $19.2 million loss in Q3, revenue declines on election day filing</a> 
 
Early voting has been very impressive this year, both by mail and in person, adding up to over 80 million. Counting of these, particularly postal ones, is going to be slow, as it has to be thorough and could see many legal challenges, particularly from the Trump camp.

Some media reports are saying that the results may not be complete untill Wednesday evening, local time.

That's mainly becase the battlegound states also saw high percentage of early voting.

When the results reach a deadheat situation, particularly in battleground states, legal challenges and demands for recounts could follow. In cases of razor-thin victory margins, this could be more pertinent.

Election rules vary by state, but generally speaking, many states allow for recounting if the margin is narrow, or by a percentage points. If this happens in cases where the absolute number of votes is in tens of thousands, counting could take more hours, or perhaps another day, to finsh.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-2024-biden-calls-for-trump-to-be-jailed-lock-him-uppolitically-769881">Also read: US elections 2024: Biden calls for Trump to be jailed, quickly backtracks. 'Lock him up...'</a> 
 
This is what happened in the equally contentious presidntial race of 2020. While the elections took place on November 3, the final electoral college results came in on November 7 after days of counting and recounting.

That's a far cry from 2016, when Trump, fighting the race for the first time, was declared winner on election night itself, as his Democratic rival Hillary Clinton conceded.

So, given Trump's penchant for litigation and unfounded vote-rigging allegations, the only scenario where the results could come at the end of Election Night is if he is at an unassailable lead in the electoral college voting.

That appears unlikely as, at the time of writing, Trump is ahead in 188 seats, with Harris closing in at nearly 100, with most battleground state results yet to come in.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

US Election Result 2024: It is highly likely that the election results will be delayed well after the night of November 5 in the US, or into the next morning, as Democrat Kamala Harris and Republican Donald Trump are locked in what pollsters predicted would be a supertight race for president.

US Election Result 2024: It is highly likely that the election results will be delayed well after the night of November 5 in the US, or into the next morning, as Democrat Kamala Harris and Republican Donald Trump are locked in what pollsters predicted would be a supertight race for president. Unless that is, the pollsters were wrong and one candidate has a very clear, unassailable lead in the electoral college votes. The majority mark for the Electoral College votes is 270, out of 538. Watch: US Election Results: Will US Get Its First Woman President In Harris? | WION US Poll Coverage × At the time of writing this, the Associated Press news agency is projecting more electoral college votes for Trump than Harris. The AP projections are considered near-official. But these victories for Trump in states like Flordia, Indiana, Oklahoma, Kentucky, Tenessee, Mississipi, Alabama, West Virginia and South Carolina are too early to confirm a national trend and include traditionally Republican, or red states. The final results will be known only when battleground states finish their voting, and this election cycle, there are seven of them out of the total 50: Pennsylvania, Georgia, North Carolina, Michigan, Arizona, Wisconsin and Nevada. The early leads for Trump happened in 2020 too, only to dash his hopes and reject the outcome as his Democratic rival Joe Biden won the electoral college votes and became president. This time, the Trump camp is keeping a 'wait and watch' approach. Earlier reports had said that Trump was not going to immediately address the press on election night. Counting is already slow, as long lines in some polling stations meant that polling is going to continue late into the evening. The counting of absentee ballots is going to be long and tedious, as identity checking and verification is going to take time. In both in-person and postal ballots, there are chances of legal challenges too, complicating and delaying the process futher. Also read: Trump Media reports $19.2 million loss in Q3, revenue declines on election day filing Early voting has been very impressive this year, both by mail and in person, adding up to over 80 million. Counting of these, particularly postal ones, is going to be slow, as it has to be thorough and could see many legal challenges, particularly from the Trump camp. Some media reports are saying that the results may not be complete untill Wednesday evening, local time. That's mainly becase the battlegound states also saw high percentage of early voting. When the results reach a deadheat situation, particularly in battleground states, legal challenges and demands for recounts could follow. In cases of razor-thin victory margins, this could be more pertinent. Election rules vary by state, but generally speaking, many states allow for recounting if the margin is narrow, or by a percentage points. If this happens in cases where the absolute number of votes is in tens of thousands, counting could take more hours, or perhaps another day, to finsh. Also read: US elections 2024: Biden calls for Trump to be jailed, quickly backtracks. 'Lock him up...' This is what happened in the equally contentious presidntial race of 2020. While the elections took place on November 3, the final electoral college results came in on November 7 after days of counting and recounting. That's a far cry from 2016, when Trump, fighting the race for the first time, was declared winner on election night itself, as his Democratic rival Hillary Clinton conceded. So, given Trump's penchant for litigation and unfounded vote-rigging allegations, the only scenario where the results could come at the end of Election Night is if he is at an unassailable lead in the electoral college voting. That appears unlikely as, at the time of writing, Trump is ahead in 188 seats, with Harris closing in at nearly 100, with most battleground state results yet to come in. (With inputs from agencies)

US Election results could take longer, even another day, unless...

Following significant victories in recent years, including the pivotal 2020 presidential election and the 2021 Senate runoff, Georgia has emerged as a battleground state with shifting political dynamics. The question remains can Kamala Harris repeat that success or will Donald Trump flip the state in his favor? Our next report getting you more details!

US Elections 2024: What Are the Key Issues For Voters In Georgia?

Election Night in the US begins as soon as polls close and the sun sets on November 5 in different time zones on the east and west coasts of America.

Will it be an orderly election that would declare either Democrat Kamala Harris or Republican Donald Trump as the winner? 
 
Or will there be chaos?

Here is how the election night will unfold, based on past experience.

Watch: US Election Outcome Key to Global Trade Policies

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Much of the US election results are, in a manner of speaking, 'taken over' by the media outlets, particularly TV channels like CNN, Fox News, NBC News, ABC News and CBS News, who keep projecting and 'calling the election' for different states based on their mathematical calculations.

The only news organisation that's officially allowed to declare elections is the Associated Press News agency.

The first states to close polling from 7 pm Eastern Time will start these trends. This will continue up to 1 am, November 6, when polls close last in Hawaii and Alaska.

As soon as the election is over, the exit polls will start trickling in, besides the state-level projections.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/china-braces-for-critical-week-amid-us-election-and-anticipated-stimulus-plans-773079">Also read: China braces for critical week amid US election and anticipated stimulus plans</a>

Exit polls, which will also include public opinion on various issues, could be a strong indicator of how people have voted.

What one should watch out for are the projections for the battleground states. This time, there are seven:&nbsp;Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.

<h2>Remember the magic number 270</h2>

Remember that the popular vote does not decide American presidential elections.

The picture will become clearer only when we know how many electoral votes each candidate got.

Among swing states, the polls will close first in Georgia. 
 
Whatever projections come out of Georgia&nbsp;could set the tone for the rest of the night. Unless there are legal challenges, Georgia could be the first state to declare who won its 16 electoral college votes, out of the total &nbsp;538 for the whole nation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-vows-hell-revive-alien-enemies-act-during-final-campaign-rally-heres-what-it-is-773089">Also read: Donald Trump vows he'll revive Alien Enemies Act during final campaign rally. Here's what it is</a>

That could be delayed, if there are questions and lawsuits like last time.

Nationally, the Electoral College vote majority mark is 270, and whoever gets that number wins the election, irrespective of the popular vote.

While swing states are keenly watched, early results could come from small, non-battleground states.&nbsp;

Along with the presidential elections, several local polls are being held on November 5, whose results will trickle in throughout the election night and subsequent hours.

In cases where there are disputes, these results- federal or local -&nbsp;could drag on for days or months.

<h2>Two scenarios: Order vs Chaos</h2>

In case of an orderly election, the picture will be clear as soon as most of the swing state electoral college vote results are in, as long as the states considered non-battlegrounds suddenly spring surprises.

Already, there's such a surprise happening with Iowa, where according to polls, Trump - earlier thought to be winning- might face a challenge.

Where are the candidates going to be?

Trump will be watching the results and addressing supporters from a convention centre in Palm Beach, Florida.

Harris will be with her supporters at Howard University, a traditionally Black educational institution where she had studied.

<h2>Concede or not concede, that's the question</h2>

If the results are clear-cut, and there's no room for suspense or suspicion, the losing candidate traditionally concedes defeat on election night itself.

Once the concession speech/message is delivered by the losing candidate, the winner addresses his or her supporters with a victory speech.

But this election is far from 'traditional'.

Already there are court cases about dropped ballots, eligibility and citizenship questions, and vote suppression allegations.

The rivals, particularly Republicans, are fighting for each vote.

So it would be better to concentrate on what happens if the elections are not orderly.

In other words, what if one candidate does not concede?

At several counting centres, the Republicans - or Democrats, though that seems highly unlikely - could file numerous lawsuits challenging the outcome and seeking recounts.

The recounts, if ordered by the courts, can take hours or even days, as it is a laborious yet thorough process.&nbsp;

It is highly unlikely that Kamala Harris would not concede if the verdict is clearly favouring Trump.

But if Trump appears to lose, it could be a different scenario altogether, if we go by last time.

There is, however, a possible change of heart in Trump if he loses as per some experts, because of two key reasons. 
 
One is that he is already facing court cases related to the 2021 Capitol riots, which resulted from his refusal to accept the results.

A repeat of those 'crimes' could only see him going in and out of court for the rest of his life. 
 
Two, there's frankly not much left for him to fight for, as this is possibly his last shot at the White House given his advanced age.

<h2>What if states are not called by Election Night?</h2>

Things could get dragged on for days, or weeks, pending legal battles.

In 2020, several states were not called due to recounting or lawsuits.&nbsp;

This is quite possible as the opinion polls are saying that it is a tight race.&nbsp;

Such a long night happened in 2000 when votes were recounted in many parts after the contest between incumbent Republican President George W Bush and his Democratic challenger Al Gore. That election was ultimately settled by the US Supreme Court, in favour of Bush.

In the 2020 election, battleground states of Pennsylvania and Nevada were called four days after election day, while it took more than a week for Arizona. 
 
A delay in results, along with possible instigations by Trump and his surrogates, could rile up his supporters. That could lead to protests, counterprotests, violence and arrests. 
 
Will Americans keep calm this election season? 
 
Only hours left to know.

(With inputs from agencies)

Election Night in the US begins as soon as polls close and the sun sets on November 5 in different time zones on the east and west coasts of America. Will it be an orderly election that would declare either Democrat Kamala Harris or Republican Donald Trump as the winner?

Election Night in the US begins as soon as polls close and the sun sets on November 5 in different time zones on the east and west coasts of America. Will it be an orderly election that would declare either Democrat Kamala Harris or Republican Donald Trump as the winner? Or will there be chaos? Here is how the election night will unfold, based on past experience. Watch: US Election Outcome Key to Global Trade Policies × Much of the US election results are, in a manner of speaking, 'taken over' by the media outlets, particularly TV channels like CNN, Fox News, NBC News, ABC News and CBS News, who keep projecting and 'calling the election' for different states based on their mathematical calculations. The only news organisation that's officially allowed to declare elections is the Associated Press News agency. The first states to close polling from 7 pm Eastern Time will start these trends. This will continue up to 1 am, November 6, when polls close last in Hawaii and Alaska. As soon as the election is over, the exit polls will start trickling in, besides the state-level projections. Also read: China braces for critical week amid US election and anticipated stimulus plans Exit polls, which will also include public opinion on various issues, could be a strong indicator of how people have voted. What one should watch out for are the projections for the battleground states. This time, there are seven: Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. Remember the magic number 270 Remember that the popular vote does not decide American presidential elections. The picture will become clearer only when we know how many electoral votes each candidate got. Among swing states, the polls will close first in Georgia. Whatever projections come out of Georgia could set the tone for the rest of the night. Unless there are legal challenges, Georgia could be the first state to declare who won its 16 electoral college votes, out of the total 538 for the whole nation. Also read: Donald Trump vows he'll revive Alien Enemies Act during final campaign rally. Here's what it is That could be delayed, if there are questions and lawsuits like last time. Nationally, the Electoral College vote majority mark is 270, and whoever gets that number wins the election, irrespective of the popular vote. While swing states are keenly watched, early results could come from small, non-battleground states. Along with the presidential elections, several local polls are being held on November 5, whose results will trickle in throughout the election night and subsequent hours. In cases where there are disputes, these results- federal or local - could drag on for days or months. Two scenarios: Order vs Chaos In case of an orderly election, the picture will be clear as soon as most of the swing state electoral college vote results are in, as long as the states considered non-battlegrounds suddenly spring surprises. Already, there's such a surprise happening with Iowa, where according to polls, Trump - earlier thought to be winning- might face a challenge. Where are the candidates going to be? Trump will be watching the results and addressing supporters from a convention centre in Palm Beach, Florida. Harris will be with her supporters at Howard University, a traditionally Black educational institution where she had studied. Concede or not concede, that's the question If the results are clear-cut, and there's no room for suspense or suspicion, the losing candidate traditionally concedes defeat on election night itself. Once the concession speech/message is delivered by the losing candidate, the winner addresses his or her supporters with a victory speech. But this election is far from 'traditional'. Already there are court cases about dropped ballots, eligibility and citizenship questions, and vote suppression allegations. The rivals, particularly Republicans, are fighting for each vote. So it would be better to concentrate on what happens if the elections are not orderly. In other words, what if one candidate does not concede? At several counting centres, the Republicans - or Democrats, though that seems highly unlikely - could file numerous lawsuits challenging the outcome and seeking recounts. The recounts, if ordered by the courts, can take hours or even days, as it is a laborious yet thorough process. It is highly unlikely that Kamala Harris would not concede if the verdict is clearly favouring Trump. But if Trump appears to lose, it could be a different scenario altogether, if we go by last time. There is, however, a possible change of heart in Trump if he loses as per some experts, because of two key reasons. One is that he is already facing court cases related to the 2021 Capitol riots, which resulted from his refusal to accept the results. A repeat of those 'crimes' could only see him going in and out of court for the rest of his life. Two, there's frankly not much left for him to fight for, as this is possibly his last shot at the White House given his advanced age. What if states are not called by Election Night? Things could get dragged on for days, or weeks, pending legal battles. In 2020, several states were not called due to recounting or lawsuits. This is quite possible as the opinion polls are saying that it is a tight race. Such a long night happened in 2000 when votes were recounted in many parts after the contest between incumbent Republican President George W Bush and his Democratic challenger Al Gore. That election was ultimately settled by the US Supreme Court, in favour of Bush. In the 2020 election, battleground states of Pennsylvania and Nevada were called four days after election day, while it took more than a week for Arizona. A delay in results, along with possible instigations by Trump and his surrogates, could rile up his supporters. That could lead to protests, counterprotests, violence and arrests. Will Americans keep calm this election season? Only hours left to know. (With inputs from agencies)

US Election Night: Order or chaos? Possible scenarios after Trump vs Harris race, explained

The US state of Georgia said on Thursday (Oct 31) that there was "targeted disinformation" circulating online about the November 5 presidential election in the country that was likely a result of "foreign interference attempting to sow discord and chaos.

The US state of Georgia said on Thursday (Oct 31) that there was "targeted disinformation" circulating online about the November 5 presidential election in the country that was likely a result of "foreign interference attempting to sow discord and chaos." In a statement, Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger's office said, "Earlier today, our office became aware of a video purporting to show a Haitian immigrant with multiple Georgia IDs claiming to have voted multiple times." Georgia alleges Russian interference Raffensperger's office said this was an example of targeted disinformation that the US has seen in this and other elections. "We are working to combat this and identify the origin of it with our state and federal partners. CISA [Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency] is currently investigating," the statement added. Also read | Georgia US Presidential Election 2024: Voting, Result info, Candidates and all you need to know The office further pointed out that the disinformation was likely a production of Russian troll farms. The office urged X owner Elon Musk and the leadership of other social media platforms to take such details down. "As Americans, we can’t let our enemies use lies to divide us and undermine our faith in our institutions - or each other," the office added. 'Election in Georgia is secure' The remarks from Raffensperger's office came a day after Georgia officials said that the election process in the swing state was secure, dismissing “crazy” online conspiracy theories. Early voting happened in Georgia and officials say more than three million people have already gone to the polls, substantially outstripping turnout at a similar stage in previous elections, according to a report by the news agency Reuters. Also watch | WION Explains: How swing states decide elections in the US × The state came under intense scrutiny after then-president Donald Trump lost the election in 2020, with the Republican candidate pressuring officials to find more votes for him and launching dozens of lawsuits. Trump still won’t admit that he lost in 2020 and has refused to commit to accepting the results this year. (With inputs from agencies)

US presidential election: Disinformation coming from 'foreign interference,' says state of Georgia

A US woman, 24, was found guilty of murdering her 20-month-old son and dumping him in the Georgia landfill, according to The Associated Press. Leilani Simon killed his son Quinton Simon in 2022 and on 5 Oct 2022, she reported her son missing at the Savannah’s Chatham County Police Department.

After two years of investigation, Leilani was found guilty of the murder on Monday (Oct 28), along with a series of other charges, including concealing a death and making false statements.

The child’s remains were found in a landfill on 18 Nov 2022. Two days later, Leilani was arrested. She was accused of murdering her son and disposing of his body in a dumpster. The mother could face life in prison.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/strongly-disagree-kamala-harris-rejects-bidens-garbage-dig-at-trump-supporters-772094">'Strongly disagree,' Kamala Harris rejects Biden's 'garbage' dig at Trump supporters</a>

"This was a complex case because we did not have a cause or manner of death in this case because of what happened, so that’s always a concern," Chatham County Assistant District Attorney Jenny Parker said after the verdict, as reported by New York Post.&nbsp;

"But the law enforcement agencies involved did such a good job investigating this case, and we did our best presenting the evidence that they had."

During the court ruling, Leilani was seen crying and wiping off her tears, as the unanimous verdict charged the mother with 19 charges, as per WTOC.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LeilaniSimonTrial?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LeilaniSimonTrial</a> 
 
You DID NOT CRIED FOR YOUR son#QuintonSimon the entire trial, but you crying now. You are NOW A CONVICTED MURDER. 
 
Sentencing will occur at a later date. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LeilaniSimon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LeilaniSimon</a> YOU ARE A BABY KILLER. Have fun in jail. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JusticeForQuinton?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JusticeForQuinton</a> <a href="https://t.co/Y9nHT5gYFT">pic.twitter.com/Y9nHT5gYFT</a>
— 𝕏 🕵🏻‍♀️🦋L̤̮E̤̮G̤̮🅰️C̤̮Y̤̮🦋🕵🏻‍♀️ 𝕏 (@iamlegacy23) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamlegacy23/status/1849888950128685243?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Netizens fume over Georgia mom’s sobbing in the court</h2>

Netizens blasted Simon in the comment section of the above video.

"They should ban her from seeing her other kids too. It's toxic,"&nbsp;one user wrote.&nbsp;

"She rolls her eyes too. She just thinking about prison is all. She knows damn well,"&nbsp;wrote another user.&nbsp;

While a third said, "She still isn't crying for Quinton. She's crying because she got caught. POS."

Simon has two other young children. It is unclear if they remain&nbsp;with her family or are being taken care of somewhere else.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/girls-have-outshined-boys-in-using-marijuana-in-the-united-states-study-772062">Girls have outshined boys in using marijuana in the United States: Study</a>

Leilani called 911 on the morning of 5 Oct 2022, to report her son was missing from his indoor playpen at their home outside Savannah. After police spent days searching the home and surrounding neighbourhood, Chatham County Police Chief Jeff Hadley said that investigators believed the child was dead. He also named the mother as the sole suspect.

(With inputs from agencies)

A US woman, 24, was found guilty of murdering her 20-month-old son and dumping him in the Georgia landfill, according to The Associated Press. Leilani Simon killed his son Quinton Simon in 2022 and on 5 Oct 2022, she reported her son missing at the Savannah’s Chatham County Police Department.

A US woman, 24, was found guilty of murdering her 20-month-old son and dumping him in the Georgia landfill, according to The Associated Press. Leilani Simon killed his son Quinton Simon in 2022 and on 5 Oct 2022, she reported her son missing at the Savannah’s Chatham County Police Department. After two years of investigation, Leilani was found guilty of the murder on Monday (Oct 28), along with a series of other charges, including concealing a death and making false statements. The child’s remains were found in a landfill on 18 Nov 2022. Two days later, Leilani was arrested. She was accused of murdering her son and disposing of his body in a dumpster. The mother could face life in prison. Also Read | 'Strongly disagree,' Kamala Harris rejects Biden's 'garbage' dig at Trump supporters "This was a complex case because we did not have a cause or manner of death in this case because of what happened, so that’s always a concern," Chatham County Assistant District Attorney Jenny Parker said after the verdict, as reported by New York Post. "But the law enforcement agencies involved did such a good job investigating this case, and we did our best presenting the evidence that they had." During the court ruling, Leilani was seen crying and wiping off her tears, as the unanimous verdict charged the mother with 19 charges, as per WTOC. #BREAKING #LeilaniSimonTrial You DID NOT CRIED FOR YOUR son#QuintonSimon the entire trial, but you crying now. You are NOW A CONVICTED MURDER. Sentencing will occur at a later date. #LeilaniSimon YOU ARE A BABY KILLER. Have fun in jail. #JusticeForQuinton pic.twitter.com/Y9nHT5gYFT — 𝕏 🕵🏻‍♀️🦋L̤̮E̤̮G̤̮🅰️C̤̮Y̤̮🦋🕵🏻‍♀️ 𝕏 (@iamlegacy23) October 25, 2024 × Netizens fume over Georgia mom’s sobbing in the court Netizens blasted Simon in the comment section of the above video. "They should ban her from seeing her other kids too. It's toxic," one user wrote. "She rolls her eyes too. She just thinking about prison is all. She knows damn well," wrote another user. While a third said, "She still isn't crying for Quinton. She's crying because she got caught. POS." Simon has two other young children. It is unclear if they remain with her family or are being taken care of somewhere else. Also Read | Girls have outshined boys in using marijuana in the United States: Study Leilani called 911 on the morning of 5 Oct 2022, to report her son was missing from his indoor playpen at their home outside Savannah. After police spent days searching the home and surrounding neighbourhood, Chatham County Police Chief Jeff Hadley said that investigators believed the child was dead. He also named the mother as the sole suspect. (With inputs from agencies)

US mother found guilty of killing 20-month-old son, dumping body in trash | Internet fumes

A seriously injured gunman was taken into custody after he fired multiple shots from a floor of the Four Seasons Hotel in Midtown Atlanta on Tuesday (Oct 29).&nbsp;

A police officer was also severely injured while taking down the gunman, Atlanta Police said to NBC News.&nbsp;

Police said the suspected shooter fired at least once from the balcony of the 33rd floor of the hotel. He also fired through walls and doors of the 53-storey building but no injuries were reported. At least 15 shots were fired.&nbsp;

The man was carrying three guns, including a handgun and a long gun. The shooting occurred after the man had a dispute with a worker in the building.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:213,&quot;w&quot;:674,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2050}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-his-new-york-rally-a-lovefest-as-he-faces-backlash-for-crude-and-racist-remarks-771908">Trump calls his New York rally a ‘lovefest’ as he faces backlash for crude and racist remarks</a>

Police reached the spot around 10 in the morning and officers "attempted to get the individual to come to the door to speak" with them but the alleged shooter "refused to do so."

He threw a weapon from his balcony while the cops were telling him to come down. The floor was evacuated immediately and officers breached the floor to take him into custody.

Videos of the incident shared on social media showed officers standing outside the building while the man fired gunshots at them.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:412,&quot;w&quot;:560,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2249}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/american-woman-dies-after-hitting-running-plane-propeller-while-taking-photos-771881">American woman dies after hitting running plane propeller while taking photos</a>

Another footage showed the police carrying the injured man, identified as 70-year-old Jay Stevens Berger, into an ambulance.&nbsp;

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has launched a probe into the matter, and the building has been seized.&nbsp;

The Four Seasons hotel, opened in 1997, occupies 19 stories of the building out of its 53 stories. The hotel occupies 244 rooms, 23 of which are designated suites.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A seriously injured gunman was taken into custody after he fired multiple shots from a floor of the Four Seasons Hotel in Midtown Atlanta on Tuesday (Oct 29). A police officer was also severely injured while taking down the gunman, Atlanta Police said to NBC News.

A seriously injured gunman was taken into custody after he fired multiple shots from a floor of the Four Seasons Hotel in Midtown Atlanta on Tuesday (Oct 29). A police officer was also severely injured while taking down the gunman, Atlanta Police said to NBC News. Police said the suspected shooter fired at least once from the balcony of the 33rd floor of the hotel. He also fired through walls and doors of the 53-storey building but no injuries were reported. At least 15 shots were fired. The man was carrying three guns, including a handgun and a long gun. The shooting occurred after the man had a dispute with a worker in the building. Also read | Trump calls his New York rally a ‘lovefest’ as he faces backlash for crude and racist remarks Police reached the spot around 10 in the morning and officers "attempted to get the individual to come to the door to speak" with them but the alleged shooter "refused to do so." He threw a weapon from his balcony while the cops were telling him to come down. The floor was evacuated immediately and officers breached the floor to take him into custody. Videos of the incident shared on social media showed officers standing outside the building while the man fired gunshots at them. Also read | American woman dies after hitting running plane propeller while taking photos Another footage showed the police carrying the injured man, identified as 70-year-old Jay Stevens Berger, into an ambulance. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has launched a probe into the matter, and the building has been seized. The Four Seasons hotel, opened in 1997, occupies 19 stories of the building out of its 53 stories. The hotel occupies 244 rooms, 23 of which are designated suites. (With inputs from agencies)

Atlanta man arrested after firing multiple shots from Four Seasons Hotel building

Two days after the country of Georgia went to polls, the election is being disputed by the losing opposition as the ruling party prepares for another term in power. Watch to know more.

Georgia Elections: Georgia's President Labels Election 'A Total Theft Of Votes'

Thousands of Georgians have taken to the streets in the capital, Tbilisi, to rally against the results of a contested weekend parliamentary election. Watch this report for more details!

Georgia: Thousands Gather Outside Parliament Demanding Annulment of Polls

On Sunday, Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili urged citizens to take to the streets to protest the results of Saturday's contested parliamentary election, in which the electoral commission declared a victory for the ruling party. Watch to know more.

Georgia Elections: Parliamentary Elections Under Contention

Georgia's central electoral commission said Saturday (Oct 26) that the ruling Georgian Dream party has won 53 per cent of the vote in the parliamentary election, with votes in&nbsp;70 per cent of precincts counted.

Earlier, the opposition had claimed victory as exit polls showed conflicting results.

Dream party's&nbsp;executive secretary, Mamuka Mdinaradze, told reporters that the party had secured a solid majority.&nbsp;

"As the results released by central election commission show, Georgian Dream has secured a solid majority."

The polls were seen as a watershed moment for the country, with results expected to decide whether Tbilisi would drift away from pro-Russia foreign policy or remain at loggerheads with the&nbsp;European Union.

<h2>Exit polls</h2>

Earlier, exit polls showed rival sides winning the elections. Imedi TV channel, a pro-Dream channel, showed the party would win 56 per cent of votes. On the other hand, pro-opposition Formula and Mtavari Arkhi channels claimed that pro-West parties would be able to form a majority in the 150-seat parliament.

Both sides claimed victory based on these exit polls.&nbsp;

Ivanishvili, the ruling party's reclusive billionaire founder and onetime prime minister, was quick to thank voters for the 'victory'.&nbsp;

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"It is a rare case in the world that the same party achieves such success in such a difficult situation - this is a good indicator of the talent of the Georgian people," Ivanishvili said just minutes after polls closed.

On the other hand, the opposition too declared its victory, calling upon&nbsp;Ivanishvili to concede defeat.

"We believe the Georgian public has voted clearly for a future at the heart of Europe and no amount of posturing will change that," declared&nbsp;Tina Bokuchava, leader of the United National Movement party of former president Mikheil Saakashvili.

<h2>What next?</h2>

With the Dream party looking all set to form the government, the country is expected to stick to its pro-Russia policy. Since the invasion of Ukraine began two years ago, Tbilisi has refrained from criticising Moscow.&nbsp;

Watch :Georgia Elections: Russia Says West Interfering In Georgia

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Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who is seen as a pro-Russia figure in Europe, also&nbsp;congratulated the Georgian Dream for an "overwhelming victory".

It also means that Georgia won't become a member of the EU as long as the anti-West party remains in power.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Georgia's central electoral commission said Saturday (Oct 26) that the ruling Georgian Dream party has won 53 per cent of the vote in the parliamentary election, with votes in 70 per cent of precincts counted.

Georgia's central electoral commission said Saturday (Oct 26) that the ruling Georgian Dream party has won 53 per cent of the vote in the parliamentary election, with votes in 70 per cent of precincts counted. Earlier, the opposition had claimed victory as exit polls showed conflicting results. Dream party's executive secretary, Mamuka Mdinaradze, told reporters that the party had secured a solid majority. "As the results released by central election commission show, Georgian Dream has secured a solid majority." The polls were seen as a watershed moment for the country, with results expected to decide whether Tbilisi would drift away from pro-Russia foreign policy or remain at loggerheads with the European Union. Exit polls Earlier, exit polls showed rival sides winning the elections. Imedi TV channel, a pro-Dream channel, showed the party would win 56 per cent of votes. On the other hand, pro-opposition Formula and Mtavari Arkhi channels claimed that pro-West parties would be able to form a majority in the 150-seat parliament. Both sides claimed victory based on these exit polls. Ivanishvili, the ruling party's reclusive billionaire founder and onetime prime minister, was quick to thank voters for the 'victory'. Also read: G7 okays $50bn loan to Kyiv, backed by frozen Russian assets "It is a rare case in the world that the same party achieves such success in such a difficult situation - this is a good indicator of the talent of the Georgian people," Ivanishvili said just minutes after polls closed. On the other hand, the opposition too declared its victory, calling upon Ivanishvili to concede defeat. "We believe the Georgian public has voted clearly for a future at the heart of Europe and no amount of posturing will change that," declared Tina Bokuchava, leader of the United National Movement party of former president Mikheil Saakashvili. What next? With the Dream party looking all set to form the government, the country is expected to stick to its pro-Russia policy. Since the invasion of Ukraine began two years ago, Tbilisi has refrained from criticising Moscow. Watch :Georgia Elections: Russia Says West Interfering In Georgia × Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who is seen as a pro-Russia figure in Europe, also congratulated the Georgian Dream for an "overwhelming victory". It also means that Georgia won't become a member of the EU as long as the anti-West party remains in power. (With inputs from agencies)

Georgia's ruling Dream party wins majority with 70% of precincts counted

Georgians voted on Saturday (Oct 26)&nbsp;in elections that will determine the fledgling democracy's European aspirations, amid growing concerns the ruling party is drifting toward Russia.

The parliamentary election pits an unprecedented union of pro-Western opposition forces against the ruling Georgian Dream accused of stifling democracy and pivoting toward Moscow.

Brussels has warned that the vote will determine European Union candidate Tbilisi's chances of joining the bloc.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/georgia-supreme-court-rejects-republican-appeal-to-reinstate-last-minute-election-rules-769898">Also read:&nbsp;Georgia Supreme Court rejects Republican appeal to reinstate last-minute election rules</a>

Opinion polls in the country of four million indicate opposition parties could get enough votes to form a coalition to supplant Georgian Dream, controlled by powerful billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili.

"Of course, I have voted for Europe. Because I want to live in Europe, not in Russia. So, I voted for change," said Alexandre Guldani, an 18-year-old student.

Pro-Western President Salome Zurabishvili said the vote would "determine Georgia's future", while the chair of the United National Movement opposition party, Tina Bokuchava, promised a "great day of national victory".

Watch |&nbsp;Georgia Votes In Pivotal Election | EU vs Russia: Which Way Will Georgia Lean?

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The Central Election Commission said it had received 133 reports of violations and Zurabishvili said there were "deeply troubling incidents of violence unfolding at various polling stations".

A video was circulated on social media showing a fistfight between dozens of unidentified men outside a polling station in suburban Tbilisi.

The opposition also shared videos of an alleged ballot stuffing incident in the south-eastern village of Sadakhlo.

"Bidzina Ivanishvili's thugs are desperate to cling onto power and will resort to anything to subvert the election process," Bokuchava said.

"They are stuffing ballot boxes, bullying voters, and beating observers."

Mamuka Mdinaradze, a ruling party leader, rejected her claims as a "provocation" staged by the opposition, while the electoral commission nullified all the votes cast at that precinct.

Georgian Dream says it is confident it can win a commanding majority of the 150-seat parliament, calling for a "maximum mobilisation" of its supporters.

<h2>'Risk of post-electoral turmoil'&nbsp;</h2>

Polls close at 1600 GMT, with exit polls to be issued soon afterward. Preliminary results are expected to start coming in during the night.

Analyst Gela Vasadze at Georgia's Strategic Analysis Centre warned that "if the ruling party attempts to stay in power regardless of the election outcome, then there is the risk of post-electoral turmoil."

Georgian Dream says it wants to win a supermajority that will allow it to pass a constitutional ban on all major opposition parties.

In power since 2012, the party initially pursued a liberal pro-Western policy agenda. But over the last two years, the party has reversed course.

Its campaign has centred on a conspiracy theory about a "global war party" that controls Western institutions and is seeking to drag Georgia into the Russia-Ukraine war.

In a country still scarred by Russia's 2008 invasion, the party has offered voters bogeyman stories about an imminent threat of war, which only the Georgian Dream could prevent.

In a recent TV interview, Ivanishvili painted a grotesque image of the West where "orgies are taking place right in the streets".

<h2>'Crucial test for democracy'&nbsp;</h2>

Georgian Dream's adoption of a controversial "foreign influence" law this spring targeting civil society sparked weeks of mass street protests and was criticised as a Kremlin-style measure to silence dissent.

The move prompted Brussels to freeze Georgia's EU accession process, while Washington imposed sanctions on dozens of Georgian officials.

The ruling party has also mounted a campaign against sexual minorities, following the recent adoption of measures that ban LGBTQ "propaganda", nullify same-sex marriages conducted abroad, and outlaw gender reassignment.

The Kremlin on Friday blasted "unprecedented attempts at Western interference" in the vote.

The latest polls show that the opposition is poised to garner enough ballots to take power.

The potential coalition grouping includes Georgia's main opposition force, jailed ex-president Mikheil Saakashvili's United National Movement (UNM) and Akhali, a recently formed party headed by former UNM leaders.

Along with several smaller parties, they have signed up for a pro-European policy platform outlining far-reaching electoral, judicial, and law enforcement reforms.

They have agreed to form an interim multi-party government to push through the reforms -- if they command enough seats in parliament -- before calling fresh elections.

A poll conducted by US pollster Edison Research shortly before the elections showed 34 per cent of voters would back the Georgian Dream, while the four opposition alliances combined are set to garner 53 per cent of the vote.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Georgians voted on Saturday (Oct 26) in elections that will determine the fledgling democracy's European aspirations, amid growing concerns the ruling party is drifting toward Russia.

Georgians voted on Saturday (Oct 26) in elections that will determine the fledgling democracy's European aspirations, amid growing concerns the ruling party is drifting toward Russia. The parliamentary election pits an unprecedented union of pro-Western opposition forces against the ruling Georgian Dream accused of stifling democracy and pivoting toward Moscow. Brussels has warned that the vote will determine European Union candidate Tbilisi's chances of joining the bloc. Also read: Georgia Supreme Court rejects Republican appeal to reinstate last-minute election rules Opinion polls in the country of four million indicate opposition parties could get enough votes to form a coalition to supplant Georgian Dream, controlled by powerful billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili. "Of course, I have voted for Europe. Because I want to live in Europe, not in Russia. So, I voted for change," said Alexandre Guldani, an 18-year-old student. Pro-Western President Salome Zurabishvili said the vote would "determine Georgia's future", while the chair of the United National Movement opposition party, Tina Bokuchava, promised a "great day of national victory". Watch | Georgia Votes In Pivotal Election | EU vs Russia: Which Way Will Georgia Lean? × The Central Election Commission said it had received 133 reports of violations and Zurabishvili said there were "deeply troubling incidents of violence unfolding at various polling stations". A video was circulated on social media showing a fistfight between dozens of unidentified men outside a polling station in suburban Tbilisi. The opposition also shared videos of an alleged ballot stuffing incident in the south-eastern village of Sadakhlo. "Bidzina Ivanishvili's thugs are desperate to cling onto power and will resort to anything to subvert the election process," Bokuchava said. "They are stuffing ballot boxes, bullying voters, and beating observers." Mamuka Mdinaradze, a ruling party leader, rejected her claims as a "provocation" staged by the opposition, while the electoral commission nullified all the votes cast at that precinct. Georgian Dream says it is confident it can win a commanding majority of the 150-seat parliament, calling for a "maximum mobilisation" of its supporters. 'Risk of post-electoral turmoil' Polls close at 1600 GMT, with exit polls to be issued soon afterward. Preliminary results are expected to start coming in during the night. Analyst Gela Vasadze at Georgia's Strategic Analysis Centre warned that "if the ruling party attempts to stay in power regardless of the election outcome, then there is the risk of post-electoral turmoil." Georgian Dream says it wants to win a supermajority that will allow it to pass a constitutional ban on all major opposition parties. In power since 2012, the party initially pursued a liberal pro-Western policy agenda. But over the last two years, the party has reversed course. Its campaign has centred on a conspiracy theory about a "global war party" that controls Western institutions and is seeking to drag Georgia into the Russia-Ukraine war. In a country still scarred by Russia's 2008 invasion, the party has offered voters bogeyman stories about an imminent threat of war, which only the Georgian Dream could prevent. In a recent TV interview, Ivanishvili painted a grotesque image of the West where "orgies are taking place right in the streets". 'Crucial test for democracy' Georgian Dream's adoption of a controversial "foreign influence" law this spring targeting civil society sparked weeks of mass street protests and was criticised as a Kremlin-style measure to silence dissent. The move prompted Brussels to freeze Georgia's EU accession process, while Washington imposed sanctions on dozens of Georgian officials. The ruling party has also mounted a campaign against sexual minorities, following the recent adoption of measures that ban LGBTQ "propaganda", nullify same-sex marriages conducted abroad, and outlaw gender reassignment. The Kremlin on Friday blasted "unprecedented attempts at Western interference" in the vote. The latest polls show that the opposition is poised to garner enough ballots to take power. The potential coalition grouping includes Georgia's main opposition force, jailed ex-president Mikheil Saakashvili's United National Movement (UNM) and Akhali, a recently formed party headed by former UNM leaders. Along with several smaller parties, they have signed up for a pro-European policy platform outlining far-reaching electoral, judicial, and law enforcement reforms. They have agreed to form an interim multi-party government to push through the reforms -- if they command enough seats in parliament -- before calling fresh elections. A poll conducted by US pollster Edison Research shortly before the elections showed 34 per cent of voters would back the Georgian Dream, while the four opposition alliances combined are set to garner 53 per cent of the vote. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Georgia votes in high stakes election as voters decide between West and Russia

In what many consider to be a make-or-break decision on the country's chances of joining the European Union, Georgians went to the polls on Saturday. Watch in for details!

Georgia Elections: Russia Says West Interfering In Georgia

EU vs Russia: Which Way Will Georgia Lean?

Russia has accused the West of interfering with the parliamentary elections in Georgia adding that it is “not influencing Georgian affairs.” Georgia is all set to hold the crucial elections on Saturday.

Russia Says West Interfering In Georgia Elections

An unknown Powerball player from Georgia won an estimated jackpot of $478 million on Wednesday. The win ended the state’s record of not winning a Powerball jackpot for over 10 years. Nobody has won the Powerball since August and Wednesday’s jackpot had a cash value of $230.5 million.

<h2>Winning numbers for Powerball for 23 October</h2>

The winning numbers for the Powerball’s $478 million jackpot were 2-15-27-29-39, Powerball 20. If the winner has all the numbers and Powerball matched, they can take the whole prize value given over 30 years, or a one-time cash prize valued at $230.5 million.&nbsp;

The chance to win a &nbsp;Powerball jackpot is 1 in 292,201,338. The Powerball drawing is conducted every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. &nbsp;It takes place live at 10:59 pm Eastern.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-china-trade-tariffs-escalating-would-be-costly-for-everybody-imf-770338">US, China trade tariffs escalating would be ‘costly for everybody: IMF</a>

The Powerball ticket is priced at $2 per game, and is sold in 45 states, the District of Puerto Rico, Columbia, and the US Virgin Islands.&nbsp;

<h2>How to win Powerball?</h2>

The players can choose five numbers from 1-69 for the white balls and one for the Powerball from 1-26. To win a Powerball play, players have to match at least one combination available during the game.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/boeing-machinists-vote-down-contract-extending-strike-and-production-halt-770330">Boeing machinists vote down contract, extending strike and production halt</a>

Through the power play priced at $1 per play, players get a chance to increase winnings two, four, or even ten times. If the jackpot's value is less or equal to $150 million, players can multiply their winnings by ten.&nbsp;

Here are a few of the biggest Powerball jackpot&nbsp;

7 November 2027–$2.04 billion– CA&nbsp; 
11 October 2024– $1.765 billion– CA 
13 January 2016– $1.586 billion – CA, FL, TN 
6 April 2024– $1.326 billion– OR 
19 July 2023– $1.08 billion– CA&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

An unknown Powerball player from Georgia won an estimated jackpot of $478 million on Wednesday. The win ended the state’s record of not winning a Powerball jackpot for over 10 years.

An unknown Powerball player from Georgia won an estimated jackpot of $478 million on Wednesday. The win ended the state’s record of not winning a Powerball jackpot for over 10 years. Nobody has won the Powerball since August and Wednesday’s jackpot had a cash value of $230.5 million. Winning numbers for Powerball for 23 October The winning numbers for the Powerball’s $478 million jackpot were 2-15-27-29-39, Powerball 20. If the winner has all the numbers and Powerball matched, they can take the whole prize value given over 30 years, or a one-time cash prize valued at $230.5 million. The chance to win a Powerball jackpot is 1 in 292,201,338. The Powerball drawing is conducted every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. It takes place live at 10:59 pm Eastern. Also Read | US, China trade tariffs escalating would be ‘costly for everybody: IMF The Powerball ticket is priced at $2 per game, and is sold in 45 states, the District of Puerto Rico, Columbia, and the US Virgin Islands. How to win Powerball? The players can choose five numbers from 1-69 for the white balls and one for the Powerball from 1-26. To win a Powerball play, players have to match at least one combination available during the game. Also Read | Boeing machinists vote down contract, extending strike and production halt Through the power play priced at $1 per play, players get a chance to increase winnings two, four, or even ten times. If the jackpot's value is less or equal to $150 million, players can multiply their winnings by ten. Here are a few of the biggest Powerball jackpot 7 November 2027–$2.04 billion– CA 11 October 2024– $1.765 billion– CA 13 January 2016– $1.586 billion – CA, FL, TN 6 April 2024– $1.326 billion– OR 19 July 2023– $1.08 billion– CA (With inputs from agencies)

Georgia Powerball player wins jackpot of $478 million on Wednesday

The Georgia Supreme Court on Tuesday (Oct 22) rejected an appeal by the Republican Party to reinstate controversial last-minute election rules that have been invalidated by a lower court.

Last week, Fulton County Superior Court Judge Thomas Cox ruled that the new rules adopted by the Georgia State Election Board — led by a pro-Trump majority — were "illegal, unconstitutional and void." 
&nbsp; 
Republicans, including the Republican National Committee and the Georgia GOP, had appealed the ruling, seeking to reinstate the rules in an expedited manner before Election Day.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:180,&quot;w&quot;:580,&quot;h&quot;:33,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1929}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-files-complaint-against-uk-labour-party-claims-blatant-foreign-interference-in-2024-us-elections-769885">Trump files complaint against UK Labour Party, claims 'blatant foreign interference' in 2024 US Elections</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:233,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1982}">Georgia Supreme Court rejects appeal</h2>

In a unanimous decision, the Georgia's highest court declined to expedite the appeal or put the lower court's ruling on hold.&nbsp;

This means that Cox's invalidation of the rules will stay in place, and the appeal will "proceed in the ordinary course," meaning it could take months before a final ruling is made.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:379,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2128}">Which rules were invalidated?</h2>

The new election rules were passed by the State Election Board's three-member Republican majority in August and September, close to the Nov 5 election date. This was done despite opposition from the board's lone Democrat and non-partisan chair.&nbsp;

According to AFP, those in favour of the controversial rule are staunch Donald Trump backers, and were even praised by the ex-president as "pit bulls" fighting for "victory."

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:495,&quot;w&quot;:692,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2332}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-presidential-election-2024-what-key-issues-are-driving-the-polls-where-do-harris-and-trump-stand-on-them-767314">US Presidential Election 2024: What key issues are driving the polls? Where do Harris and Trump stand on them?</a>

The changes also met with strong resistance from local election officials, who expressed concerns over the timing of the rules just weeks before the general election and voiced fear&nbsp;that the last-minute changes could cause confusion among poll workers and voters.

Among the rules struck down by Cox were provisions requiring three poll workers to count ballots by hand after polls closed, as well as changes to the certification process for county election results.

Democrats and voting rights groups had argued these rules could be exploited to delay or block certification, especially if Trump were to lose the upcoming election.

However, some Republicans argue the rules would promote transparency and accountability.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:755,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2504}">Reactions to the ruling</h2>

Republican Scot Turner, a former state representative and leader of the group that filed the lawsuit challenging the seven rules, expressed relief that election workers would not have to implement new procedures just two weeks before Election Day.&nbsp;

Turner criticised the Republican Party's position on the matter. "I hate fighting my friends," he said, as per news agency AP.

"It's unfortunate that the Republican Party has apparently lost their affection for defending constitutional principles like separation of powers. But I’m undeterred, and we will continue to fight," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiN85i0z6OJAxUSdfUHHfDZNUwQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-2024-swing-state-georgias-pro-trump-election-board-mandates-hand-counting-of-votes-last-minute-766116" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-2024-swing-state-georgias-pro-trump-election-board-mandates-hand-counting-of-votes-last-minute-766116&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiN85i0z6OJAxUSdfUHHfDZNUwQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">US elections 2024: Swing state Georgia's pro-Trump election board mandates hand counting of votes last minute</a>

Georgia GOP chairperson Josh McKoon, however, defended the new rules, calling opposition to them "unimaginably stupid and damaging to public confidence in what is expected to be a closely contested election".&nbsp;

He criticised the court for not resolving the matter quickly and said: "It is supremely disappointing to observe yet another failure of our judicial system".&nbsp;

Meanwhile, voting rights groups celebrated the court's decision. Lauren Groh-Wargo, CEO of Fair Fight, described it as "a huge win for Georgia voters and the rule of law," arguing that the invalidated rules were "part of a larger election denier plot to undermine confidence in our elections".

(With inputs from agencies)

The Georgia Supreme Court on Tuesday (Oct 22) rejected an appeal by the Republican Party to reinstate controversial last-minute election rules that have been invalidated by a lower court.

The Georgia Supreme Court on Tuesday (Oct 22) rejected an appeal by the Republican Party to reinstate controversial last-minute election rules that have been invalidated by a lower court. Last week, Fulton County Superior Court Judge Thomas Cox ruled that the new rules adopted by the Georgia State Election Board — led by a pro-Trump majority — were "illegal, unconstitutional and void." Republicans, including the Republican National Committee and the Georgia GOP, had appealed the ruling, seeking to reinstate the rules in an expedited manner before Election Day. Also read | Trump files complaint against UK Labour Party, claims 'blatant foreign interference' in 2024 US Elections Georgia Supreme Court rejects appeal In a unanimous decision, the Georgia's highest court declined to expedite the appeal or put the lower court's ruling on hold. This means that Cox's invalidation of the rules will stay in place, and the appeal will "proceed in the ordinary course," meaning it could take months before a final ruling is made. Which rules were invalidated? The new election rules were passed by the State Election Board's three-member Republican majority in August and September, close to the Nov 5 election date. This was done despite opposition from the board's lone Democrat and non-partisan chair. According to AFP, those in favour of the controversial rule are staunch Donald Trump backers, and were even praised by the ex-president as "pit bulls" fighting for "victory." Also read | US Presidential Election 2024: What key issues are driving the polls? Where do Harris and Trump stand on them? The changes also met with strong resistance from local election officials, who expressed concerns over the timing of the rules just weeks before the general election and voiced fear that the last-minute changes could cause confusion among poll workers and voters. Among the rules struck down by Cox were provisions requiring three poll workers to count ballots by hand after polls closed, as well as changes to the certification process for county election results. Democrats and voting rights groups had argued these rules could be exploited to delay or block certification, especially if Trump were to lose the upcoming election. However, some Republicans argue the rules would promote transparency and accountability. Reactions to the ruling Republican Scot Turner, a former state representative and leader of the group that filed the lawsuit challenging the seven rules, expressed relief that election workers would not have to implement new procedures just two weeks before Election Day. Turner criticised the Republican Party's position on the matter. "I hate fighting my friends," he said, as per news agency AP. "It's unfortunate that the Republican Party has apparently lost their affection for defending constitutional principles like separation of powers. But I’m undeterred, and we will continue to fight," he added. Also read | US elections 2024: Swing state Georgia's pro-Trump election board mandates hand counting of votes last minute Georgia GOP chairperson Josh McKoon, however, defended the new rules, calling opposition to them "unimaginably stupid and damaging to public confidence in what is expected to be a closely contested election". He criticised the court for not resolving the matter quickly and said: "It is supremely disappointing to observe yet another failure of our judicial system". Meanwhile, voting rights groups celebrated the court's decision. Lauren Groh-Wargo, CEO of Fair Fight, described it as "a huge win for Georgia voters and the rule of law," arguing that the invalidated rules were "part of a larger election denier plot to undermine confidence in our elections". (With inputs from agencies)

Georgia Supreme Court rejects Republican appeal to reinstate last-minute election rules

Search operations are still underway after a deadly ferry dock collapsed in Georgia, US on Saturday. Authorities said at least seven people were killed in the incident. Watch to know more.

Tragedy Strikes As Ferry Dock Collapses In US

A Georgia judge on Tuesday (Oct 15) hit pause on a controversial rule that required ballots to be hand-counted in the 2024 election. Fulton County Superior Court Judge Robert McBurney, as per reports, said that the rule was "too much, too late" to be enforced effectively.&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:85,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1922}">What is Georgia's hand-counting ballot rule?</h2>

With the US presidential vote only weeks away, the Georgia State Election Board, led by a pro-Trump majority, passed a controversial rule in late September&nbsp;requiring&nbsp;the manual hand count of ballots.

It calls for three individuals at each precinct to manually tally ballots and compare their results with machine counts.&nbsp;In addition, a poll manager must then confirm that the figures correspond to the tallies generated by the machines and take corrective actions if there are any inconsistencies.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:247,&quot;w&quot;:673,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2084}" data-ved="2ahUKEwj4q_Tt7ZGJAxXzRmwGHaxNNTEQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-2024-swing-state-georgias-pro-trump-election-board-mandates-hand-counting-of-votes-last-minute-766116" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-2024-swing-state-georgias-pro-trump-election-board-mandates-hand-counting-of-votes-last-minute-766116&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj4q_Tt7ZGJAxXzRmwGHaxNNTEQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE">US elections 2024: Swing state Georgia's pro-Trump election board mandates hand counting of votes last minute</a>

The rule which&nbsp;had caused alarm in the closely watched swing state&nbsp;was passed by the&nbsp;state election board&nbsp;by a three-to-two vote. According to AFP, those in favour of the controversial rule are staunch Trump backers, and were even praised by the ex-president as "pit bulls" fighting for "victory."

Judge McBurney questioned why such a significant change was being introduced so close to the election,.

"You dumped a problem in their lap … a few weeks before it needs to be put into operation," he said to state election board lawyer Robert Thomas.

"What's the wisdom of that, and what's the necessity for that, as opposed to, 'Alright, let's make sure that we get to try this out, and this will be effective the next election?',"&nbsp;asked the judge.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:495,&quot;w&quot;:692,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2332}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-presidential-election-2024-what-key-issues-are-driving-the-polls-where-do-harris-and-trump-stand-on-them-767314">US Presidential Election 2024: What key issues are driving the polls? Where do Harris and Trump stand on them?</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:548,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2385}">Critics call rule 'misguided'</h2>

Both Democratic and Republican officials in Georgia, as per reports, have labelled the rule unnecessary given that machines already count the vote, without any margin for "human error". They also contend that hand-counting&nbsp;could slow down the process and be a potential tool to sow doubt and provide an opportunity for disinformation if errors occur during human counting.

Even as Trump praised those pushing the rule,&nbsp;Georgia's Republican Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger said that the&nbsp;rule change was "misguided.". He noted that "activists seeking to impose last-minute changes in election procedures" only "undermine voter confidence and burden election workers."

(More to follow)

A Georgia judge on Tuesday (Oct 15) hit pause on a controversial rule that required ballots to be hand-counted in the 2024 election. Fulton County Superior Court Judge Robert McBurney, as per reports, said that the rule was "too much, too late" to be enforced effectively.

A Georgia judge on Tuesday (Oct 15) hit pause on a controversial rule that required ballots to be hand-counted in the 2024 election. Fulton County Superior Court Judge Robert McBurney, as per reports, said that the rule was "too much, too late" to be enforced effectively. What is Georgia's hand-counting ballot rule? With the US presidential vote only weeks away, the Georgia State Election Board, led by a pro-Trump majority, passed a controversial rule in late September requiring the manual hand count of ballots. It calls for three individuals at each precinct to manually tally ballots and compare their results with machine counts. In addition, a poll manager must then confirm that the figures correspond to the tallies generated by the machines and take corrective actions if there are any inconsistencies. Also read | US elections 2024: Swing state Georgia's pro-Trump election board mandates hand counting of votes last minute The rule which had caused alarm in the closely watched swing state was passed by the state election board by a three-to-two vote. According to AFP, those in favour of the controversial rule are staunch Trump backers, and were even praised by the ex-president as "pit bulls" fighting for "victory." Judge McBurney questioned why such a significant change was being introduced so close to the election,. "You dumped a problem in their lap … a few weeks before it needs to be put into operation," he said to state election board lawyer Robert Thomas. "What's the wisdom of that, and what's the necessity for that, as opposed to, 'Alright, let's make sure that we get to try this out, and this will be effective the next election?'," asked the judge. Also read | US Presidential Election 2024: What key issues are driving the polls? Where do Harris and Trump stand on them? Critics call rule 'misguided' Both Democratic and Republican officials in Georgia, as per reports, have labelled the rule unnecessary given that machines already count the vote, without any margin for "human error". They also contend that hand-counting could slow down the process and be a potential tool to sow doubt and provide an opportunity for disinformation if errors occur during human counting. Even as Trump praised those pushing the rule, Georgia's Republican Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger said that the rule change was "misguided.". He noted that "activists seeking to impose last-minute changes in election procedures" only "undermine voter confidence and burden election workers." (More to follow)

'Too much, too late': Georgia judge temporarily halts controversial ballot hand-counting rule

A judge in the closely watched US swing state of Georgia ruled on Tuesday that local election board members must certify vote results, in a decision that could impact the upcoming presidential contest.

Superior Court Judge Robert McBurney's ruling came after a Republican appointee to the election board in Fulton County, which includes large parts of Atlanta, refused earlier this year to certify the results of Georgia's presidential primary.

Julie Adams, in a lawsuit backed by the America First Policy Institute, a group aligned with Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, had sought a judgment from the court that the certification of election results was "discretionary."

McBurney rejected Adams's claim.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:231,&quot;w&quot;:706,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1916}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/too-much-too-late-georgia-judge-temporarily-halts-controversial-hand-counting-rule-767837">'Too much, too late': Georgia judge temporarily halts controversial ballot hand-counting rule</a>

"If election superintendents were, as Plaintiff urges, free to play investigator, prosecutor, jury, and judge and so -- because of a unilateral determination of error or fraud -- refuse to certify election results, Georgia voters would be silenced," McBurney wrote.

"Our Constitution and our Election Code do not allow for that to happen."

The judge said there are "some things an election superintendent must do, either in a certain way or by a certain time, with no discretion to do otherwise."

"Certification is one of those things," he said. "Election superintendents in Georgia have a mandatory fixed obligation to certify election results."

Trump is facing racketeering charges in the southern state over his efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 election he lost to Democrat Joe Biden.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/record-turnout-in-georgia-as-early-voting-opens-for-harris-vs-trump-us-presidential-race-767843">Record turnout in Georgia as early voting opens for Harris vs Trump US presidential race</a>

The certification case is one of a number of election-related cases that are being heard in courts in Georgia, which is expected to be one of seven key states that will determine the outcome of the November 5 election between Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris.

Another case involves a controversial requirement passed by a pro-Trump majority on the Georgia State Election Board that counties manually hand count their ballots.

Georgia officials from both sides of the political aisle say the count is not only superfluous -- machines already count the ballots -- but also a potential tool to sow doubt by slowing the process and creating space for disinformation.

The state election board passed the rule by a three-to-two vote -- those in favor being staunch Trump backers praised by the ex-president as "pit bulls" fighting for "victory."

The Democratic National Committee and the Democratic Party of Georgia sued to block the rule with the Harris campaign's backing.

A Georgia state election official said meanwhile that a record number of early in-person votes had been cast on Tuesday.

"As predicted, as of 1pm we have already set an opening day of Early Voting record with 154,505 votes cast in person today, with several hours to go," Gabriel Sterling said on X. "MASSIVE numbers!"

Sterling said the previous first day early voting record was in 2020, when 136,000 votes were cast.

Georgia is one of a number of US states that allows voters to cast their ballots in-person before the November election.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

A judge in the closely watched US swing state of Georgia ruled on Tuesday that local election board members must certify vote results, in a decision that could impact the upcoming presidential contest.

A judge in the closely watched US swing state of Georgia ruled on Tuesday that local election board members must certify vote results, in a decision that could impact the upcoming presidential contest. Superior Court Judge Robert McBurney's ruling came after a Republican appointee to the election board in Fulton County, which includes large parts of Atlanta, refused earlier this year to certify the results of Georgia's presidential primary. Julie Adams, in a lawsuit backed by the America First Policy Institute, a group aligned with Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, had sought a judgment from the court that the certification of election results was "discretionary." McBurney rejected Adams's claim. Also read | 'Too much, too late': Georgia judge temporarily halts controversial ballot hand-counting rule "If election superintendents were, as Plaintiff urges, free to play investigator, prosecutor, jury, and judge and so -- because of a unilateral determination of error or fraud -- refuse to certify election results, Georgia voters would be silenced," McBurney wrote. "Our Constitution and our Election Code do not allow for that to happen." The judge said there are "some things an election superintendent must do, either in a certain way or by a certain time, with no discretion to do otherwise." "Certification is one of those things," he said. "Election superintendents in Georgia have a mandatory fixed obligation to certify election results." Trump is facing racketeering charges in the southern state over his efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 election he lost to Democrat Joe Biden. Also read | Record turnout in Georgia as early voting opens for Harris vs Trump US presidential race The certification case is one of a number of election-related cases that are being heard in courts in Georgia, which is expected to be one of seven key states that will determine the outcome of the November 5 election between Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris. Another case involves a controversial requirement passed by a pro-Trump majority on the Georgia State Election Board that counties manually hand count their ballots. Georgia officials from both sides of the political aisle say the count is not only superfluous -- machines already count the ballots -- but also a potential tool to sow doubt by slowing the process and creating space for disinformation. The state election board passed the rule by a three-to-two vote -- those in favor being staunch Trump backers praised by the ex-president as "pit bulls" fighting for "victory." The Democratic National Committee and the Democratic Party of Georgia sued to block the rule with the Harris campaign's backing. A Georgia state election official said meanwhile that a record number of early in-person votes had been cast on Tuesday. "As predicted, as of 1pm we have already set an opening day of Early Voting record with 154,505 votes cast in person today, with several hours to go," Gabriel Sterling said on X. "MASSIVE numbers!" Sterling said the previous first day early voting record was in 2020, when 136,000 votes were cast. Georgia is one of a number of US states that allows voters to cast their ballots in-person before the November election. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Georgia judge rules local election boards must certify vote results ahead of 2024 election

Voters in Georgia turned out in record numbers as the battleground state opened early voting for the Nov. 5 presidential election between Democrat Kamala Harris and Republican Donald Trump, state officials said on Tuesday.

At least 252,000 voters had cast ballots at early-voting sites as of 4 pm&nbsp;EDT (2000 GMT), nearly double the 136,000 who participated in the first day of early voting in the 2020 election, said Gabriel Sterling, Georgia's No. 2 election official. "Spectacular turnout," he wrote on social media.

Trump, at a campaign event in Atlanta, expressed enthusiasm for the early vote in Georgia.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:181,&quot;w&quot;:706,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2008}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/too-much-too-late-georgia-judge-temporarily-halts-controversial-hand-counting-rule-767837">'Too much, too late': Georgia judge temporarily halts controversial ballot hand-counting rule</a>

"The votes are coming in, and they're coming in at a nice level for us," he said.

Early voting, either in person or by mail, has become increasingly popular with US&nbsp;voters. Nearly 1 in 7 voters cast their ballots ahead of Election Day in 2020, according to the University of Florida's Election Lab.

However, many Republicans opposed the dramatic expansion of mail voting that year, saying it was less secure than in-person voting, and Trump cited false claims of mail ballot fraud as he sought unsuccessfully to overturn his defeat by Democrat Joe Biden.

Some Republicans continue to insist that voters should be able to cast their ballots only in person on Election Day, though party officials are encouraging supporters to vote ahead of time.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:229,&quot;w&quot;:673,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2066}" data-ved="2ahUKEwj4q_Tt7ZGJAxXzRmwGHaxNNTEQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-2024-swing-state-georgias-pro-trump-election-board-mandates-hand-counting-of-votes-last-minute-766116" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-2024-swing-state-georgias-pro-trump-election-board-mandates-hand-counting-of-votes-last-minute-766116&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj4q_Tt7ZGJAxXzRmwGHaxNNTEQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE">US elections 2024: Swing state Georgia's pro-Trump election board mandates hand counting of votes last minute</a>

Nationwide, 5.5 million Americans have already voted this year, according to Election Lab. By contrast, 27 million people had cast their ballots at this point in the 2020 election as voters sought to avoid crowded polling places during the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

Like some other states, Georgia has tightened its mail-voting laws since then, requiring voters who want to cast an absentee ballot to provide proof of identity and limiting the number of places they can deposit their ballots.

Georgia is one of the seven competitive battleground states expected to play a decisive role in deciding the election.

A Georgia judge on Tuesday temporarily halted a rule requiring clerks to verify vote totals by hand-counting ballots in the 2024 election.

Judge Robert McBurney said in his Tuesday ruling that it was appropriate to pause the change because it introduced fresh uncertainty into the process just weeks before Election Day.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

Voters in Georgia turned out in record numbers as the battleground state opened early voting for the Nov. 5 presidential election between Democrat Kamala Harris and Republican Donald Trump, state officials said on Tuesday.

Voters in Georgia turned out in record numbers as the battleground state opened early voting for the Nov. 5 presidential election between Democrat Kamala Harris and Republican Donald Trump, state officials said on Tuesday. At least 252,000 voters had cast ballots at early-voting sites as of 4 pm EDT (2000 GMT), nearly double the 136,000 who participated in the first day of early voting in the 2020 election, said Gabriel Sterling, Georgia's No. 2 election official. "Spectacular turnout," he wrote on social media. Trump, at a campaign event in Atlanta, expressed enthusiasm for the early vote in Georgia. Also read | 'Too much, too late': Georgia judge temporarily halts controversial ballot hand-counting rule "The votes are coming in, and they're coming in at a nice level for us," he said. Early voting, either in person or by mail, has become increasingly popular with US voters. Nearly 1 in 7 voters cast their ballots ahead of Election Day in 2020, according to the University of Florida's Election Lab. However, many Republicans opposed the dramatic expansion of mail voting that year, saying it was less secure than in-person voting, and Trump cited false claims of mail ballot fraud as he sought unsuccessfully to overturn his defeat by Democrat Joe Biden. Some Republicans continue to insist that voters should be able to cast their ballots only in person on Election Day, though party officials are encouraging supporters to vote ahead of time. Also read | US elections 2024: Swing state Georgia's pro-Trump election board mandates hand counting of votes last minute Nationwide, 5.5 million Americans have already voted this year, according to Election Lab. By contrast, 27 million people had cast their ballots at this point in the 2020 election as voters sought to avoid crowded polling places during the COVID-19 pandemic. Like some other states, Georgia has tightened its mail-voting laws since then, requiring voters who want to cast an absentee ballot to provide proof of identity and limiting the number of places they can deposit their ballots. Georgia is one of the seven competitive battleground states expected to play a decisive role in deciding the election. A Georgia judge on Tuesday temporarily halted a rule requiring clerks to verify vote totals by hand-counting ballots in the 2024 election. Judge Robert McBurney said in his Tuesday ruling that it was appropriate to pause the change because it introduced fresh uncertainty into the process just weeks before Election Day. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Record turnout in Georgia as early voting opens for Harris vs Trump US presidential race

The Kremlin on Tuesday (Oct 15) accused Western countries of&nbsp;"blatant attempts" to sway&nbsp;the election campaign in the Caucasus country of Georgia. Russia&nbsp;accused the West of influencing the country's parliamentary elections which are set to be held later this month.&nbsp;

Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "We see blatant attempts by Western countries to exert pressure on the current Georgian authorities and to exert direct, unveiled influence on the electoral campaign."

"We do not interfere in the internal affairs of Georgia in any way, and we have no plans to do so," he stressed.

"Georgia is our neighbor. You know all our complications in bilateral relations, which at the same time do not hinder the development of humanitarian ties through the line of societies, peoples of two countries," Peskov added. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/western-allies-denounce-georgia-foreign-influence-law-721894">Also read:&nbsp;Western allies denounce Georgia 'foreign influence' law</a>

The Caucasus country formally became a candidate to join the European Union last year, however, Brussels has since warned that Georgia is drifting away from its stated ambition.&nbsp;

In June, the European Parliament declared the accession process "de facto" and halted it.

<h2>Russian spy agency accuses US of plotting unrest ahead of Georgia polls&nbsp;</h2>

Earlier in September, Russia's Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) accused the United States&nbsp;of weaponising European election observers to discredit Georgia's elections and trigger pro-Western street demonstrations.&nbsp;

“The US State Department intends to use a new tool to interfere in Georgia’s parliamentary elections on Oct. 26 in order to prevent the victory of Georgian Dream,” the SVR said in a statement last month.&nbsp;

They further claimed that the American&nbsp;authorities were conspiring with the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe’s (OSCE) democratic institutions division ODIHR to declare Georgia’s upcoming elections unfree and unfair.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Kremlin on Tuesday (Oct 15) accused Western countries of "blatant attempts" to sway the election campaign in the Caucasus country of Georgia. Russia accused the West of influencing the country's parliamentary elections which are set to be held later this month.

The Kremlin on Tuesday (Oct 15) accused Western countries of "blatant attempts" to sway the election campaign in the Caucasus country of Georgia. Russia accused the West of influencing the country's parliamentary elections which are set to be held later this month. Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "We see blatant attempts by Western countries to exert pressure on the current Georgian authorities and to exert direct, unveiled influence on the electoral campaign." "We do not interfere in the internal affairs of Georgia in any way, and we have no plans to do so," he stressed. "Georgia is our neighbor. You know all our complications in bilateral relations, which at the same time do not hinder the development of humanitarian ties through the line of societies, peoples of two countries," Peskov added. Also read: Western allies denounce Georgia 'foreign influence' law The Caucasus country formally became a candidate to join the European Union last year, however, Brussels has since warned that Georgia is drifting away from its stated ambition. In June, the European Parliament declared the accession process "de facto" and halted it. Russian spy agency accuses US of plotting unrest ahead of Georgia polls Earlier in September, Russia's Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) accused the United States of weaponising European election observers to discredit Georgia's elections and trigger pro-Western street demonstrations. “The US State Department intends to use a new tool to interfere in Georgia’s parliamentary elections on Oct. 26 in order to prevent the victory of Georgian Dream,” the SVR said in a statement last month. They further claimed that the American authorities were conspiring with the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe’s (OSCE) democratic institutions division ODIHR to declare Georgia’s upcoming elections unfree and unfair. (With inputs from agencies)

Kremlin accuses West of swaying Georgia election campaign by 'blatant attempts'

In the town of Leesburg in rural southwest Georgia, just over a dozen election workers sit at card tables, each thumbing through stacks of 50 blank pieces of paper, practising counting ballots by hand.&nbsp;

With the US presidential vote only weeks away, the Georgia State Election Board, led by a pro-Trump majority, passed a controversial requirement in September that counties manually hand count their ballots, a move that has caused alarm in the closely watched swing state.

Veronica Johnson, who is leading the training session as the Lee County director of elections and registration, says hand counting the ballots is unlikely to pose major operational problems in her small county.&nbsp;

But logistics are far from election officials' only concern.&nbsp;

Georgia officials from both sides of the political aisle say the count is not only superfluous -- machines already count the ballots -- but also a potential tool to sow doubt by slowing the process and creating space for disinformation should discrepancies arise via error-prone human counting.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-sent-covid-test-kits-to-putin-while-americans-died-explosive-new-book-reveals-his-shocking-betrayal-765783">Trump sent COVID test kits to Putin while Americans died? Explosive new book reveals his shocking betrayal</a>

"I don't feel it's necessary. I have no problem saying that. I think that at our precincts here in Lee County, we're already balancing our numbers," Johnson told AFP.

The change is all the more notable given Republican candidate Donald Trump's alleged election tampering in the state in 2020, pushing for Georgia officials to "find" enough votes to overturn President Joe Biden's victory.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:379,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2069}">'Misguided'</h2>

Lee is among Georgia's 159 counties, which encompass major metropolitan areas such as Atlanta and rural regions like the area surrounding Leesburg, with populations ranging from majority white to majority Black.

Like many of its rural counterparts, Lee County voted heavily in 2020 for Trump, who received 72 percent of its votes.

Poll workers such as those at the training will be stationed across the county's 10 voting precincts on November 5, when the United States chooses between Trump and his Democratic rival, Vice President Kamala Harris, in addition to candidates in hundreds of down-ballot races.

Because of lawsuits, Johnson is unsure if hand counting will actually happen.

"Honestly, every election director I know really just wants to serve the people and not get bogged down by the political ramifications," she said, emphasizing that ballots are already counted by machine three times.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:651,&quot;w&quot;:718,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2341}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-returns-to-pennsylvania-after-assassination-bid-blames-opposition-for-trying-to-kill-him-764852">'Wasn't supposed to make it': Trump returns to Pennsylvania, blames opposition for trying to kill him</a>

Calling the rule change "misguided," Georgia's Republican Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger said that "activists seeking to impose last-minute changes in election procedures" only "undermine voter confidence and burden election workers," while Georgia's Republican attorney general has stated the new rule is likely illegal.

The Democratic National Committee and the Democratic Party of Georgia sued to block the rule last week, with the Harris campaign's backing.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:802,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2492}">'Untrusting'&nbsp;</h2>

The state election board passed the rule by a three-to-two vote -- those in favour being staunch Trump backers, praised by the ex-president as "pit bulls" fighting for "victory."

Along the same three-to-two lines, the board passed another rule in August allowing county election boards to conduct a "reasonable inquiry" before certifying results.

Like the hand count requirement, the measure is being challenged in court, with critics particularly worried about the vagueness of the word "reasonable."

Mitchell Brown, director of the election administration program at Auburn University in Alabama, told AFP such a rule is unnecessary given that election officials "have meetings regularly where they go through the documentation and the information with the certifying body."

"The bigger, more interesting question to me is, what happens if a body chooses not to certify?"

Back in Lee County, Donna Mathis, who has served as a poll worker since 2018, noted that the "country is divided so much."

Asked about the hand count and reasonable inquiry rule, she said, "the hand count doesn't bother me" given how quickly they were able to tabulate the votes.

But "I think you can inquire too much, it ties things up," she added. "People are just so untrusting any more that they question everything."

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

In the town of Leesburg in rural southwest Georgia, just over a dozen election workers sit at card tables, each thumbing through stacks of 50 blank pieces of paper, practising counting ballots by hand.

In the town of Leesburg in rural southwest Georgia, just over a dozen election workers sit at card tables, each thumbing through stacks of 50 blank pieces of paper, practising counting ballots by hand. With the US presidential vote only weeks away, the Georgia State Election Board, led by a pro-Trump majority, passed a controversial requirement in September that counties manually hand count their ballots, a move that has caused alarm in the closely watched swing state. Veronica Johnson, who is leading the training session as the Lee County director of elections and registration, says hand counting the ballots is unlikely to pose major operational problems in her small county. But logistics are far from election officials' only concern. Georgia officials from both sides of the political aisle say the count is not only superfluous -- machines already count the ballots -- but also a potential tool to sow doubt by slowing the process and creating space for disinformation should discrepancies arise via error-prone human counting. Also read | Trump sent COVID test kits to Putin while Americans died? Explosive new book reveals his shocking betrayal "I don't feel it's necessary. I have no problem saying that. I think that at our precincts here in Lee County, we're already balancing our numbers," Johnson told AFP. The change is all the more notable given Republican candidate Donald Trump's alleged election tampering in the state in 2020, pushing for Georgia officials to "find" enough votes to overturn President Joe Biden's victory. 'Misguided' Lee is among Georgia's 159 counties, which encompass major metropolitan areas such as Atlanta and rural regions like the area surrounding Leesburg, with populations ranging from majority white to majority Black. Like many of its rural counterparts, Lee County voted heavily in 2020 for Trump, who received 72 percent of its votes. Poll workers such as those at the training will be stationed across the county's 10 voting precincts on November 5, when the United States chooses between Trump and his Democratic rival, Vice President Kamala Harris, in addition to candidates in hundreds of down-ballot races. Because of lawsuits, Johnson is unsure if hand counting will actually happen. "Honestly, every election director I know really just wants to serve the people and not get bogged down by the political ramifications," she said, emphasizing that ballots are already counted by machine three times. Also read | 'Wasn't supposed to make it': Trump returns to Pennsylvania, blames opposition for trying to kill him Calling the rule change "misguided," Georgia's Republican Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger said that "activists seeking to impose last-minute changes in election procedures" only "undermine voter confidence and burden election workers," while Georgia's Republican attorney general has stated the new rule is likely illegal. The Democratic National Committee and the Democratic Party of Georgia sued to block the rule last week, with the Harris campaign's backing. 'Untrusting' The state election board passed the rule by a three-to-two vote -- those in favour being staunch Trump backers, praised by the ex-president as "pit bulls" fighting for "victory." Along the same three-to-two lines, the board passed another rule in August allowing county election boards to conduct a "reasonable inquiry" before certifying results. Like the hand count requirement, the measure is being challenged in court, with critics particularly worried about the vagueness of the word "reasonable." Mitchell Brown, director of the election administration program at Auburn University in Alabama, told AFP such a rule is unnecessary given that election officials "have meetings regularly where they go through the documentation and the information with the certifying body." "The bigger, more interesting question to me is, what happens if a body chooses not to certify?" Back in Lee County, Donna Mathis, who has served as a poll worker since 2018, noted that the "country is divided so much." Asked about the hand count and reasonable inquiry rule, she said, "the hand count doesn't bother me" given how quickly they were able to tabulate the votes. But "I think you can inquire too much, it ties things up," she added. "People are just so untrusting any more that they question everything." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US elections 2024: Swing state Georgia's pro-Trump election board mandates hand counting of votes last minute

Over 129,000 voters in Georgia have registered since President Joe Biden announced his withdrawal from the 2024 election. This could be promising news for the Democratic nominee Kamala Harris.

Over 129,000 voters in Georgia have registered since President Joe Biden announced his withdrawal from the 2024 election. This could be promising news for the Democratic nominee Kamala Harris. Why is Georgia a crucial battleground for the 2024 election? Georgia has the potential to play an important role in determining the outcome of the 2024 race. Since Harris officially entered the race on July 21, after Biden stepped down, polls have shown Georgia becoming increasingly competitive. How many voters registered between July and September? Between July 21 and September 8, voter registration surged in Georgia, with a Newsweek report indicating that over 120,000 new voters were added. Of these, around 51,000 registered as Democrats, while 13,000 signed up as Republicans, and around 64,000 identified as unaffiliated voters. One key factor in this surge is the increase in registrations among younger people and people of colour, which could give Harris an advantage in the state. In 2020, Biden narrowly won Georgia, and the current voter dynamics could help Harris replicate or even improve on that result. What is the demographic breakdown of new Georgia voters? As per the Newsweek report, approximately 56 per cent of these new voters are aged 34 or under, with 20 per cent of them being 18-year-olds. Additionally, over half of the new registrants (about 53 per cent) are from minority ethnic backgrounds. Harris has long been supported by Black voters, and as the first Black and South Asian vice president, she has huge support from this demographic. Also, polls indicate she is doing better with Latino voters than Trump. Young voters seem to be a particular strength for Harris. A recent survey by the Harvard Institute of Politics found that she leads Trump by a 31-point margin among likely voters under 30. Also read: Trump won in 2016 despite losing popular vote: Here's how US elections work This comes after a Democratic National Committee (DNC) initiative to boost voter registration at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and Hispanic-serving institutions. This campaign, which is active in Georgia and five other swing states, is seen as an important part of Harris’s strategy. DNC chair Jaime Harrison said in a recent statement that young voters are "critical to the coalition that Vice President Kamala Harris and Governor Tim Walz are building ahead of November's election." "The DNC is taking every opportunity to reach students where they are and make sure they have all of the tools they need to vote this November on the issues that matter most to them." (With inputs from agencies)

US: How new voter registrations in Georgia could swing the state in Kamala Harris’s favour?

Georgia's president President Salome Zurabishvili refused to sign an anti-LGBTQ plus law passed by the Georgian parliament in September. The bill introduced by the ruling party Georgian Dream severely cartels rights of the LGBTQ plus community in the nation and also mirrors legislation adopted in neighboring Russia. Watch in for more details!

Georgia’s President Salome Zurabishvili Refuses To Sign Anti-LGBTQ Bill

Georgia's President Salome Zurabishvili has refused to sign into law a controversial bill denounced by rights groups and Brussels as curbing the rights of LGBTQ people, officials said Wednesday.&nbsp;

The ruling Georgian Dream party approved the measures -- dubbed the "family values" bill -- last month, in a vote boycotted by the opposition and that fuelled tensions ahead of crucial October 26 parliamentary elections.

"President Zurabishvili refused to sign the bill and returned to parliament without vetoing it," presidency spokeswoman Marika Bochoidze, told AFP.&nbsp;

It is widely expected to be signed into law by the parliament's speaker and its co-sponsor Shalva Papuashvili.

The measure mirrors legislation used in Russia to curb LGBTQ rights and "concerns restricting, in educational institutions and TV broadcasts, the propaganda of same-sex relationships and incest."&nbsp;

It would ban gender transition, adoption by gay and transgender people, and nullify same-sex marriages performed abroad.

Rights groups have also slammed language that puts homosexual relations on a par with incest.

Papuashvili said the measures are aimed at "strengthening mechanisms for the protection of minors and family values that are based on the union of a woman and a man."

The pro-EU Zurabishvili, who holds limited powers in the country's political system, has become increasingly at loggerheads with the Georgian Dream party in recent years.

This bill came after Tbilisi's recent adoption of an anti-NGO "foreign influence" law, which triggered weeks of mass anti-government protests and Western condemnation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiU96SD-O-IAxVDm68BHb9-LGcQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-georgia-to-pass-foreign-agents-bill-amid-protests-what-is-it-about-721338" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-georgia-to-pass-foreign-agents-bill-amid-protests-what-is-it-about-721338&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiU96SD-O-IAxVDm68BHb9-LGcQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE">Explained: Georgia adopts ‘foreign agents’ law after overriding presidential veto</a>

Brussels has repeatedly warned Georgia is drifting from its stated ambition of joining the EU with laws that run against European values.

Last month it said the proposed bill "undermines fundamental rights of Georgians and risks further stigmatisation and discrimination of part of the population."

Adopting the measures would have "important repercussions" on EU-hopeful Tbilisi's European integration path and "place further strain on EU-Georgia relations," the EU added.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Georgia's President Salome Zurabishvili has refused to sign into law a controversial bill denounced by rights groups and Brussels as curbing the rights of LGBTQ people, officials said Wednesday.

Georgia's President Salome Zurabishvili has refused to sign into law a controversial bill denounced by rights groups and Brussels as curbing the rights of LGBTQ people, officials said Wednesday. The ruling Georgian Dream party approved the measures -- dubbed the "family values" bill -- last month, in a vote boycotted by the opposition and that fuelled tensions ahead of crucial October 26 parliamentary elections. "President Zurabishvili refused to sign the bill and returned to parliament without vetoing it," presidency spokeswoman Marika Bochoidze, told AFP. It is widely expected to be signed into law by the parliament's speaker and its co-sponsor Shalva Papuashvili. The measure mirrors legislation used in Russia to curb LGBTQ rights and "concerns restricting, in educational institutions and TV broadcasts, the propaganda of same-sex relationships and incest." It would ban gender transition, adoption by gay and transgender people, and nullify same-sex marriages performed abroad. Rights groups have also slammed language that puts homosexual relations on a par with incest. Papuashvili said the measures are aimed at "strengthening mechanisms for the protection of minors and family values that are based on the union of a woman and a man." The pro-EU Zurabishvili, who holds limited powers in the country's political system, has become increasingly at loggerheads with the Georgian Dream party in recent years. This bill came after Tbilisi's recent adoption of an anti-NGO "foreign influence" law, which triggered weeks of mass anti-government protests and Western condemnation. Also read: Explained: Georgia adopts ‘foreign agents’ law after overriding presidential veto Brussels has repeatedly warned Georgia is drifting from its stated ambition of joining the EU with laws that run against European values. Last month it said the proposed bill "undermines fundamental rights of Georgians and risks further stigmatisation and discrimination of part of the population." Adopting the measures would have "important repercussions" on EU-hopeful Tbilisi's European integration path and "place further strain on EU-Georgia relations," the EU added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Georgia president shoots down anti-LGBTQ bill, returns it to Parliament

At least 52&nbsp;people have died across&nbsp;five US states—South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, North Carolina and Virginia—as of Saturday&nbsp;(Sep 28), after Hurricane Helene made landfall late Thursday as a Category 4 behemoth, breaking records as the storm worsened.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The death toll continues to rise as one of the most powerful hurricanes hit the country.&nbsp;

The officials feared that more bodies would be discovered across several states.&nbsp;

The hurricane continued to produce heavy rains across several states, sparking life-threatening floods.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hurricane-helene-us-coast-guard-rescues-man-and-his-dog-lost-at-sea-as-hurricane-barrels-toward-land-762506">Also read:&nbsp;Hurricane Helene: US Coast Guard rescues man and his dog lost at sea as hurricane barrels toward land</a>

Millions of homes and businesses have reportedly remained out of power across Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas. It has further prompted that power outages could drag on for weeks.&nbsp;

More than 50 people were rescued from the roof of a hospital in Unicoi County, Tennessee, about 120 miles (200 km) northeast of Knoxville, according to state officials.

Several highways across multiple US states&nbsp;have been closed due&nbsp;to the mudslides.&nbsp; Meanwhile,&nbsp;rainwater also swept over roofs and snapped phone lines, while some houses have vanished from the ground.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;US: Tropical Storm Helene Causes Massive Destruction in Florida

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The mayor of hard-hit Canton, North Carolina, called the scene “apocalyptic".&nbsp;

“I’m sure that number will go up as we have people we know who are trapped, and we’re trying to get to right now,” Georgia Governor Brian Kemp&nbsp;said.

<h2>President Biden&nbsp;approves&nbsp;emergency declaration&nbsp;</h2>

United States President Joe Biden has approved emergency declaration requests from the governors of Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Alabama.&nbsp;

The White House stressed that about 1,500 federal disaster response personnel will be deployed.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

At least 52 people have died across five US states—South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, North Carolina and Virginia—as of Saturday (Sep 28), after Hurricane Helene made landfall late Thursday as a Category 4 behemoth, breaking records as the storm worsened.

At least 52 people have died across five US states—South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, North Carolina and Virginia—as of Saturday (Sep 28), after Hurricane Helene made landfall late Thursday as a Category 4 behemoth, breaking records as the storm worsened. The death toll continues to rise as one of the most powerful hurricanes hit the country. The officials feared that more bodies would be discovered across several states. The hurricane continued to produce heavy rains across several states, sparking life-threatening floods. Also read: Hurricane Helene: US Coast Guard rescues man and his dog lost at sea as hurricane barrels toward land Millions of homes and businesses have reportedly remained out of power across Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas. It has further prompted that power outages could drag on for weeks. More than 50 people were rescued from the roof of a hospital in Unicoi County, Tennessee, about 120 miles (200 km) northeast of Knoxville, according to state officials. Several highways across multiple US states have been closed due to the mudslides. Meanwhile, rainwater also swept over roofs and snapped phone lines, while some houses have vanished from the ground. Watch | US: Tropical Storm Helene Causes Massive Destruction in Florida × The mayor of hard-hit Canton, North Carolina, called the scene “apocalyptic". “I’m sure that number will go up as we have people we know who are trapped, and we’re trying to get to right now,” Georgia Governor Brian Kemp said. President Biden approves emergency declaration United States President Joe Biden has approved emergency declaration requests from the governors of Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Alabama. The White House stressed that about 1,500 federal disaster response personnel will be deployed. (With inputs from agencies)

Hurricane Helene: At least 52 dead in five US states, millions of homes without power

'Family values' bill is adopted despite being denounced by the president, rights groups and the European Union. Watch to know more.

Georgian government cites the need to protect 'moral standards'

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