Fulton County, Georgia, is seeking the return of ballots and other election materials taken by federal authorities during a recent search of its election offices. County officials confirmed Wednesday that they have filed a sealed motion in federal court requesting that the FBI return the materials connected to the 2020 presidential election.
According to county spokeswoman Jessica Corbitt, the filing also asks the court to unseal the affidavit used to authorize the search. Local officials say they want greater transparency surrounding the federal action, which they argue has not been fully explained to the public.
The legal request follows a week of heightened scrutiny in Georgia’s largest county, which includes much of the Atlanta metropolitan area. Federal agents removed ballots and election records as part of an investigation tied to the 2020 election, prompting questions from county leaders about the scope and purpose of the search.
Additional attention was drawn by reports that Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard met with federal agents shortly after the search. According to media accounts, she later participated in a phone call involving former President Donald Trump, during which the investigation was discussed.
Trump has continued to raise concerns about the 2020 election, while members of his administration and allies have said further review of election-related matters is warranted. Fulton County officials have said they plan to address the issue publicly and are seeking clarity on the federal government’s actions.