No major issues reported at primary election polls in Georgia

FULTON COUNTY, Ga. - Voters across Georgia experienced a smooth and efficient process as they cast their ballots in today's primary election. According to Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, elections were running smoothly statewide, with an average wait time of just two minutes reported at polling stations.

 "We are pleased with that," Raffensperger told reporter. "The counties understand how important this year is, how highly scrutinized this really is. Georgia is the high focal center for elections in America."

Throughout the morning, the parking lots were full as citizens participated in the democratic process. There were no reports of long lines since voting began, thanks in part to the electronic poll pads introduced in recent years, which have expedited the process and allowed for quicker voting.

"I was expecting there to be a line. Last time I voted, it took hours. Here, I was in and out. It was super smooth," said voter Gabriel Howes.

LIVE RESULTS: Georgia 2024 primary election - All races

During the morning update, Raffensperger noted a stronger turnout compared to Georgia's presidential primary in March. He expressed satisfaction with the preparations made by county election officials and the state office, highlighting the absence of major issues.

"Virtually none, nothing I really can report on. So it's been very, very quiet. So we’re pleased with that," Raffensperger said. "The counties understand how important this year is and how highly scrutinized it is by the focal center for elections in America. But Georgia does lead in elections. We’ve shown that we have the cleanest voter rolls and the shortest lines because we put it into state law. But we’ve worked with the counties to make sure that counties had the resources to keep those lines short. We understand how important it is."

State officials said they saw stronger turnout this election  than for the March presidential primary.

One of the high profile races this election is between Georgia Supreme Court Justice Andrew Pinson and former Democratic congressman John Barrow.

In Fulton County, incumbent Sheriff Pat Labat and District Attorney Fani Willis face challengers, while Gwinnett County voters will decide whether to create the new city of Mulberry.

The only minor issue reported has been the return of absentee ballots, primarily due to postal delays. Raffensperger encouraged voters to come out and vote in person to ensure their ballots are cast.

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State officials said they checked with every county Tuesday afternoon and it appeared all polling locations were closing on time.