Georgia's Fulton County heads to court to argue for return of 2020 ballots seized by FBI

PBS NewsHour
by Kate Brumback, Associated Press
March 27, 2026
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3 min read

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The Bottom Line

Fulton County is suing to recover 2020 ballots seized by the FBI, claiming the seizure was unconstitutional.

AI Summary

Fulton County, Georgia is heading to court to challenge the FBI's seizure of 2020 election ballots, arguing the bureau violated the Constitution in taking the materials. The FBI seized the ballots as part of an investigation into possible criminal violations related to the 2020 election, but county officials contend the seizure lacked proper legal authorization. The case centers on whether federal law enforcement overstepped its authority in obtaining materials related to the county's election administration. The outcome will likely determine whether the ballots are returned to local custody and could affect other ongoing investigations into the 2020 election in Georgia, a state that faced extensive scrutiny over its vote count and procedures.

What's Being Done

Fulton County has filed a court challenge arguing the FBI seizure was improper and unconstitutional.

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