Boise City Wire

U.S. Senators Jim Risch and Jeanne Shaheen have expressed concerns following the recent parliamentary elections in Georgia. In a joint statement, they highlighted issues with the election process, citing reports from organizations such as OSCE/ODHIR, International Republican Institute, National Democratic Institute, and ISFED that indicated multiple violations compromising democratic standards.

"Despite our recent concerns with democratic backsliding in Georgia, we had hoped to see a commitment by the Georgian government to run a free and fair election process that reflected the wishes of the Georgian people," stated the senators. They further noted alarming reports of "election day interference, including violence, voter intimidation and ballot stuffing."

The senators urged the U.S. Department of State to work with European partners to investigate these allegations of fraud and external interference. "Those responsible should be held accountable," they emphasized.

Highlighting the potential consequences for Georgia's ruling party, Georgian Dream, Risch and Shaheen warned about possible impacts on its economic and security agenda. They also acknowledged Russia's role in benefiting from division and disinformation.

Recognizing the right to peaceful protest, they called on Georgian authorities to respect this democratic right. The senators also mentioned potential adjustments to their bipartisan legislation, the Georgian People’s Act, aimed at holding accountable those involved in election fraud.

The announcement follows last week's news that ten additional senators plan to cosponsor their bipartisan act targeting corruption and human rights abuses within Georgia.