Georgia’s QR Code Removal Project – A Costly Band-Aid for a Broken System

The Georgia Secretary of State’s (SOS) recent presentation to the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on the QR Code Removal Project raises serious questions about the state’s priorities and its commitment to election security, transparency, and compliance with the law. The $65,981,895 price tag to remove QR codes from ballot marking devices (BMDs) is staggering, but even more concerning is the SOS’s recommendation to ignore the mandate of SB189 and Georgia’s election law (O.C.G.A. 21-2-300) altogether. This decision not only undermines public trust but also perpetuates the use of a deeply flawed and insecure voting system.

The QR Code Problem: A Symbol of Voter Disenfranchisement

The QR code on Georgia’s ballot marking devices has been a lightning rod for criticism since its implementation. The public’s frustration is understandable: the QR code is machine-readable but not human-readable, leaving voters unable to verify that their selections are accurately recorded. Federal Judge Amy Totenberg has already declared this a violation of Georgia law, and the Curling v. Raffensperger trial has further exposed the vulnerabilities of the state’s election system. The infamous hacking demonstration in January 2024, where a ballot marking device was compromised with a ballpoint pen in open court, underscores the urgent need for reform.

Despite these glaring issues, the SOS’s presentation to the subcommittee seems more focused on justifying inaction than addressing the root problems. The recommendation to delay QR code removal until the current 10-year contract with Dominion expires in three years is a blatant attempt to sidestep the law and kick the can down the road. This approach not only ignores the will of the legislature but also fails to address the public’s legitimate concerns about election integrity.

Breaking Down the Costs: A Misguided Investment

The SOS’s cost breakdown for removing QR codes is eye-opening. The total implementation cost of $65,981,895 includes $14,652,654 for software updates and $51,329,241 for new equipment, such as printers, scanners, and servers completely replacing all existing equipment except the BMD’s. While the software updates are covered under the existing Dominion contract, the hardware costs are exorbitant and raise questions about the state’s procurement process and long-term planning. This figure is more than half the costs of the original investment in 2019.

Even more troubling are the technical issues with the proposed upgrades. The use of outdated software and hardware, such as Microsoft SQL Server 2016 and Android 8.1, highlights the system’s inherent vulnerabilities. The fact that the latest Dominion Democracy Suite (version 5.20) was only certified in February 2025 and still relies on antiquated technology is a glaring red flag, further eroding confidence in the system’s security. Many vulnerabilities have been identified by cybersecurity experts, CISA, and the Department of Homeland Security. Spending millions to upgrade a system that was not designed with security in mind is akin to putting a Band-Aid on a bullet wound.

A Better Path Forward: Hand-Marked Paper Ballots

The SOS’s recommendation to delay QR code removal and consider purchasing a new system in three years is not only fiscally irresponsible but also ignores a simpler, more effective solution: hand-marked paper ballots. Security-grade hand-marked paper ballots are fully verifiable by voters and eliminate the need for proprietary, insecure technology. By following existing law (O.C.G.A. 21-2-437), which mandates a full hand count of all races at the precinct level in public view, Georgia can restore trust and transparency in its election system.

Hand-marked paper ballots are not only more secure but also more cost-effective. The $66 million proposed for QR code removal could be better spent on implementing a robust hand-marked paper ballot system, training poll workers, and ensuring compliance with election laws. This approach would address the public’s concerns, comply with SB189 and O.C.G.A. 21-2-300, and eliminate the reliance on a proprietary system with known security vulnerabilities.

Restoring Trust in Georgia’s Elections

The QR Code Removal Project is a symptom of a larger problem: Georgia’s election system is controlled by a proprietary, secretive system that prioritizes convenience over security and transparency. The public’s trust in the electoral process has been eroded by years of mismanagement, legal battles, and cybersecurity vulnerabilities. It is time for Georgia to take bold action to restore that trust.

The solution is clear: abandon the flawed and insecure ballot marking devices in favor of hand-marked paper ballots. This approach not only complies with the law but also ensures that every voter can verify their selections and that every vote is counted accurately. By conducting full hand counts at the precinct level in public view, Georgia can set a new standard for election integrity and transparency.

The SOS’s recommendation to delay QR code removal and consider purchasing a new system in three years is a disservice to Georgia’s voters and a violation of the legislature’s mandate. It is time for the state to prioritize the will of the people over the interests of vendors and bureaucrats. Georgia’s elections should be secure, transparent, and accountable—and that starts with ditching the QR codes and embracing hand-marked paper ballots.


Secretary of State’s Testimony to the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on QR Code Removal Project, February 12, 2025

Technical Notes on QR Code Removal Project:

  1. MS SQL Server 2016 is 4 versions behind current version and Microsoft support sunsets 7/14/2026.
  2. Dominion Democracy Suite 5.17 “certified” on 3/16/2023 was tested for MS SQL Server 2019 Standard SP2 and Express with Advanced Services. Proposal calls for MS SQL Server 2016.
  3. The 5.17 Suite was tested for Android 8.1.0-2.2.4 for the Ballot Marking Devices.
  4. Latest Dominion Democracy Suite 5.20 was “certified” on 2/4/2025 with MS SQL Server 2022.
  5. The 5.20 Suite was tested on Android 8.1.0-2.5.2 for the Ballot Marking Devices.
  6. Android 8.1 was released 12/5/2017 and is no longer supported with security updates.  Latest version is Android 15. 
  7. It is unknown whether the proposal is for Democracy Suite 5.17 or 5.20.
  8. This budget doesn’t reflect an additional $4 million to upgrade battery backup units for the existing election system.

DITCH DOMINION Press Conference
What: Why Georgia Must Ditch the Dominion Voting Systems
When: Monday, January 13, 2025, 2pm
Where: Georgia State Capitol, South Atrium Steps

Speakers include:
• Richard Schroeder – Hall County Election Integrity Advocate
• Field Searcy – co-founder Georgians For Truth
• Garland Favorito – co-founder VoterGA
• Clay Parikh – cybersecurity expert in election systems
• Holly Kessler – Georgia State Director for Citizens Defending Freedom
• Antonio Jones – Gwinnett War Room podcaster
• Sam Carnline – co-founder Georgians For Truth

Monday is the first day of the 2025 Georgia Legislative session. New information is being distributed to the legislators. Speaker Jon Burns says “we’ll listen to the grassroots.” We need you, THE PEOPLE, there to make sure they do.

Garland Favorito will present stunning new evidence explaining why Georgia should ditch the Dominion voting system. New evidence includes court documents, forensic reports and expert testimony to highlight illegalities, faulty certifications, national security issues, vote count failures and undisclosed remote access capabilities.

Georgia’s elections have been outsourced to foreign corporations and use foreign law to certify them. Let’s return sovereign control of our elections back to THE PEOPLE.

Follow us on https://x.com/Georgians4Truth and
www.georgiansfortruth.org

Download the flyer handed out to legislators below.

What: Why Georgia Must Ditch the Dominion Voting Systems
When: Monday, January 13, 2025, 2pm
Where: Georgia State Capitol, South Atrium Steps

Speakers include:
• Garland Favorito – co-founder VoterGA
• Clay Parikh – cybersecurity expert in election systems
• Mallory Staples – Georgia Freedom Caucus
• Antonio Jones – Gwinnett War Room podcaster

Monday is the first day of the 2025 Georgia Legislative session. New information is being distributed to the legislators. Speaker Jon Burns says “we’ll listen to the grassroots.” We need you, THE PEOPLE, there to make sure they do.

Garland Favorito will present stunning new evidence explaining why Georgia should ditch the Dominion voting system. New evidence includes court documents, forensic reports and expert testimony to highlight illegalities, faulty certifications, national security issues, vote count failures and undisclosed remote access capabilities.

Georgia’s elections have been outsourced to foreign corporations and use foreign law to certify them. Let’s return sovereign control of our elections back to THE PEOPLE.

It’s been two weeks since a court hearing revealed that the system admin password and encryption hashes for Georgia’s electronic voting system have been exposed, potentially affecting multiple states. The silence from the media is deafening.


Since August 2023, we have attended every State Election Board (SEB) meeting.  Many election integrity activists have been participating for over four years or more. Throughout this time, we have consistently highlighted the injuries and violations impacting the people of Georgia. We have approached our county Board of Elections, engaged with our legislators, and even spoken to the governor, who bluntly stated, “You give anybody a voting machine and they can hack it.”


Meanwhile, the Secretary of State evades serious inquiries and refuses to answer questions from state senators or appear in court. Despite presenting evidence of law violations, we see minimal action. Yes, some legislation has been passed and rules adopted, but the core issues remain unresolved after four years:

  1. Insecure Voting System: We still rely on a non-compliant voting system that hasn’t been updated since its installation in 2020. Testimony in state and federal courts has confirmed that this system has “no security” and was even hacked in front of a federal judge. Alarmingly, the system admin password is so widely known that it has become a joke—emblazoned on t-shirts across the state.
  2. Bloated Voter Rolls: Our voter registration lists are inflated and manipulated centrally. Many counties report registration percentages exceeding the number of eligible voters. Irregularities indicating synthetic identity theft have been found in voter rolls during the 2018, 2020, 2022, and even 2024 primaries.
  3. Violations of Election Laws: Our state and federal election laws are being breached at every level—from county offices to the Secretary of State’s office—yet no enforcement actions have been taken.


All branches of government—executive, legislative, and judicial—have been kicking this proverbial can down the road. As a result, we find ourselves in a state of lawlessness. Regardless of what happens in 30 days, neither side will be satisfied, leading us to repeat this cycle once again. We are indeed in an “impracticable” situation. The only practical remedy remains clear:

  • Implement Emergency Paper Poll Books as per GA Rules & Regs 183-1-12-19.
  • Use Emergency Paper Ballots according to OCGA 21-2-281, 21-2-290, 21-2-334.
  • Provide one Ballot Marking Device (touchscreen) for each precinct for accessibility and ensure a tabulator count on election day.
  • Conduct a full hand count before certification, as mandated by OCGA 21-2-334, 21-2-437, 21-2-493.

According to OCGA 21-2-70-15:

  • Election workers must certify,
  • Prevent fraud, deceit & abuse,
  • Ensure “True & Perfect” returns.


I am not writing this to discourage anyone; we must all VOTE. However, it is crucial for all Georgians to be informed and engaged on these issues. The people must reclaim control usurped by foreign corporations and special interests who have centralized the process to dominate.  It’s our sovereignty duty to check the government from the bottom up and restore trust in our electoral process.

Field Searcy is co-founder of GeorgiansForTruth.org, a grassroots volunteer effort to bring election integrity to Georgia. Go to @georgians4truth on X or Rumble.

Last week, CISA and the FBI have issued a new warning about the vulnerability of our electronic voting system due to denial of service cyberattacks that could effect our elections. Previously CISA, Department of Homeland Security, Halderman, and 29 other election cybersecurity experts have issued warnings about the security and vulnerability of Georgia’s electronic voting system. On Tuesday, Georgians For Truth submitted a letter to the SEB requesting them to use existing law to mandate Emergency Paper Poll Books, Emergency Paper Ballots, and performing a full hand count before certification.  This letter was cc’d to Governor Kemp, Lt. Governor Jones, SOS Raffensperger, Speaker of the House Burns, and Senate Pro Tempor Kennedy.  Download the letter and share with your elected representatives at the local and state level.  It’s not too late to implement this solution which is already State Law.

The August 6th and 7th were watershed days for election integrity efforts at the Georgia State Election Board meeting.  We estimate between 300-400 people were in attendance. There were 3 overflow rooms filled and people sitting in the bannister / walkways of the Capitol.  Several petitions were passed for rule-making. Now, the rules have to be crafted and reviewed at the next board meeting for adoption, then a 30 day public comment period.  These are the most significant improvements for election integrity that we’ve seen from the SEB in years.  Thanks to the new board members King and Jeffares, and of course, Dr. Johnston for making this happen. The following is a breakdown.    

  • Additional poll watchers allowed at central tabulation centers
  • Additional chain of custody tracking for mailed absentee ballots
  • BoE allowed to do reasonable inquiry before election certification
  • Preservation of memory cards as part of official election records
  • Non citizen signage may be placed at discretion of county
  • Counties required to post number of daily voters at precinct

The most important decision was the referral of the Rossi/Moncla Case #SEB2023-025 to the Attorney General for criminal investigation in a 3-2 vote.  The case involves now over 346 violations of Georgia Election Code by Fulton County in the 2020 election.  The AG has 30 days to respond. Video starts at 6:26 at the point of discussion on reopening the case. Watch the video below for the blow by blow.

Summary of press conference held at Georgia State Capitol – “Citizens Declare State of Emergency with Georgia Election System. Watch video for full details. PDF of slides presented follows the summary.

Video courtesy of Ted Metz with Operation Educate

On August 6, 2024, a group of concerned citizens and election integrity advocates held a press conference at the Georgia State Capitol to declare a state of emergency with the state’s election system. They presented a wealth of evidence and expert testimony that exposed the flaws, vulnerabilities, and irregularities of the Georgia electronic voting system and the voter rolls that have plagued Georgia’s elections since 2020. They also proposed a simple and feasible solution: to use emergency paper poll books and ballots, and conduct a full hand count before certification, as allowed by the state law.

The press conference featured speakers such as Joe Rossi, a plaintiff in a case submitted to the State Election Board, who revealed how Fulton County electronically altered the election results by duplicating and counting thousands of ballots twice; Kim Brooks, a data analyst who showed how the voter rolls are manipulated with synthetic identity theft, double votes, inserted votes, and swapped votes; Amanda Prettyman, covered Bob Coovert’s work in exposing how Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger lied to Congress and the public about a forensic audit of the voting machines that never happened; Field Searcy, who highlighted the numerous security warnings and reports that have been issued by federal agencies and experts about the cyber vulnerabilities; and Beth McCure, who explained how the system violates the state and federal laws and the Constitution, and how the officials who have sworn to uphold them have committed treason by covering up the crimes.  Garland Favorito summed up the press conference with 15 reasons that Georgia’s Election system is in a State of Emergency.

The evidence and arguments presented by these speakers are compelling and alarming. They show that Georgia’s election system is in a state of emergency, and that the public cannot trust the outcomes of the elections that are conducted with the electronic voting machines and the corrupted voter rolls. They also show that the state officials, from the Governor to the Secretary of State to the Inspector General, have failed to protect the rights and interests of the voters, and have instead colluded with the foreign-owned company that has a vested interest in manipulating the elections. They have betrayed their oaths of office and the people of Georgia.

Georgia needs to take immediate and decisive action to restore the integrity and confidence of its elections. We urge the Governor and the State Election Board to declare a state of emergency and implement the solution proposed by the speakers: to use emergency paper poll books and ballots, and conduct a full hand count before certification, for the upcoming elections and until a new and secure system is in place. We also urge the Attorney General and the Department of Justice to launch a criminal investigation into the fraud and treason that have been committed by the state officials and county officials. We also urge the voters of Georgia to demand accountability and transparency from their elected representatives, and to exercise their right to vote with vigilance and courage.

Georgia’s election system is in crisis, but it is not too late to fix it. The solution is simple, legal, and feasible. It is also the only way to ensure that the will of the people is respected and that the elections are free, fair and accurate. We cannot afford to ignore the evidence and the warnings. We cannot afford to let our constitutional republic be hijacked by foreign interests and corrupt officials. We cannot afford to lose our trust and our voice. We must act now, before it is too late.

Georgia citizens to hold press conference at State Board Election meeting to expose evidence of fraud, including widespread voter roll manipulation happening RIGHT NOW, and demand action ahead of 2024 Presidential Election

ATLANTA, AUGUST 5, 2024 – The Georgia State Election Board will meet on Tuesday 8/6 and grassroots citizens will be there, once again, in mass to ensure more action is taken to secure the Georgia election system before November. For the last 3.5 years, everyday average Georgians have been forced to do the job our elected officials refuse to do: investigate and verify credible allegations of fraud, error, and election code violations, and identify solutions to make sure it can’t happen again.

The investigation of case #SEB2023-25, brought by Joe Rossi and Kevin Moncla is on the agenda again at this Tuesday’s State Election Board meeting. In an X post, Moncla writes, “We have introduced new evidence that thousands of ballots were individually selected from multiple batches and scanned for the second time days after they were scanned for the first time. Thousands of counts of evidenced and meticulously documented 2020 election fraud. FACT.”

Citizens will hold a press conference outside the SEB meeting, not only to discuss the Rossi / Moncla case, but to also expose how utterly corrupted Georgia’s voter rolls are, despite Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger falsely claiming the contrary. Widespread voter roll manipulation has been discovered from 2020, 2022, and 2024 in over 30 counties so far. Our experts will present detailed, irrefutable examples of invalid, inexplicable and illegal voter roll entries. We urge the media to attend, and we encourage the media to verify these facts independently.

The stakes couldn’t be higher. Early voting in Georgia begins in 2.5 months. Time is of the essence, this is a state of emergency.

The SEB meeting starts at 9:00am, Tuesday, August 6th. The press conference will begin at 1:00pm on the South Wing steps inside the Gold Dome.

SPEAKERS:
Sam Carnline – Citizens Declare State of Emergency with Georgia Election System
Joe Rossi – SEB2023-025 Rossi/Moncla
Kim Brooks/Helen Strahl – Voter Roll Manipulation
Amanda Prettyman – Failure to Audit Machines / failure to follow State Law by SOS
Field Searcy – Warning from: CISA, DHS, Halderman, 29 cybersecurity experts
Garland Favorito – VoterGA, Where we stand
Beth Mecure – Emergency Remedy: Paper Poll Books & Ballots, Full Hand Count, Duty to Certify
Sam Carnline – Close “My Country Tis of Thee”

WHAT: PRESS CONFERENCE

DATE: Tuesday, August 6, 2024

TIME: 1:00pm – 2:00pm

LOCATION: GA State Capitol, South Wing steps

DETAILS: Organizers of the press conference and speakers will be
available for interviews. Please send inquiries and/or questions to
Info@CRMediaCompany.com for more information.

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