Story perspectives

Fulton County Challenges FBI Over Seized Election Materials

2/18/2026

Summary

Fulton County Seeks Recovery

Fulton County, Georgia, filed a motion to recover election materials seized by the FBI in a January raid.
The county argues the FBI's affidavit relied on speculative witness statements and omitted key facts.
Fulton officials say the FBI's claims of election deficiencies were previously investigated and found baseless.
A federal hearing is scheduled for February 27 to address the return of the seized materials.

Summary

Gabbard Faces Scrutiny

Democrats question Tulsi Gabbard, former U.S. Representative, about her role in the FBI's Georgia voting center search.
The search rested on an affidavit based on debunked 2020 election claims and a referral from Kurt Olsen.
Critics, including Senator Mark Warner, say Gabbard's presence signals political motives because the case lacks foreign-intelligence ties.
Senate leaders demand a briefing from Gabbard to clarify involvement and federal impact on state election administration.

History

Historical Context

Following the 2020 U.S. presidential election, widespread allegations of voter fraud emerged, particularly in Georgia, where Trump pressured officials to overturn results. The FBI conducted raids in 2020 based on these claims, which were later discredited. In 2023, Fulton County challenged the FBI's reliance on speculative evidence, highlighting ongoing tensions regarding election integrity and federal involvement in state processes.

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Fulton County Seeks Recovery

Fulton County, Georgia, filed a motion to recover election materials seized by the FBI in a January raid.
The county argues the FBI's affidavit relied on speculative witness statements and omitted key facts.
Fulton officials say the FBI's claims of election deficiencies were previously investigated and found baseless.
A federal hearing is scheduled for February 27 to address the return of the seized materials.

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