SUMMARY: Georgia’s State Election Board voted 3-1 to mandate hand counting of ballots on Election Night, prompting contrasting reactions from the state’s major political parties. Election officials warned of insufficient preparation time for this rule, with Travis Doss highlighting possible scapegoating by future candidates. Republicans praised the decision for enhancing electoral transparency, while Democrats criticized it as a means to sow confusion and support election denial. Board Chairman John Fervier expressed concerns about the rule’s timing and legality, emphasizing that the board’s role is administrative, not legislative, suggesting potential challenges to the change.

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SUMMARY: Concerns over a potential U.S. government shutdown are rising as a previous six-month funding extension failed in the House. House Speaker Mike Johnson proposed a new plan to fund the government until December 20, which may garner bipartisan support. This limited continuing resolution includes additional funding for the Secret Service and omits the controversial “save act” that addresses non-citizen voting. Both parties recognize the political folly of a shutdown, especially before elections. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries expressed optimism about avoiding a shutdown, emphasizing the need to protect everyday Americans.

Last week, a six-month funding extension failed to get through the House.

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SUMMARY: The Children‘s Hospital Emergency Department will close in less than a week, with the new facility at Blank Children’s Hospital set to open on Sunday, September 29th at 7 a.m. The new hospital features over 440 patient beds. To celebrate the move, three therapy dogs, Aries, Reggie, and Dory, are excited to support patients and families. Additionally, Panera Bread is offering free coffee and bagels at their North Druid Hills location on the same day to thank police officers for their assistance during the transition, with no purchase necessary.

The Arthur M. Blank Hospital opens on Sept. 29.

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