The MLB All-Star Game is set to make a return to Atlanta, marking the third occasion the city will host the event. Truist Field, home to the Atlanta Braves, will be the venue for the Mid-Summer Classic, with the last occurrence in Atlanta dating back to 2000.
This decision follows a controversy surrounding Georgia’s voting laws, particularly the Election Integrity Act of 2021. The legislation introduced new constraints on mail-in voting, implemented voter ID requirements, and placed limits on ballot drop boxes. Notably, it also included provisions regarding early voting days and restrictions on providing food or water to voters waiting in line.
A federal judge partially overturned the ban on distributing food or water in August, leading to a reconsideration of the All-Star Game’s location. Commissioner Rob Manfred had previously stated that Atlanta could be a future option, contingent on certain changes being made.
In 2021, the decision to move the game out of Atlanta was influenced by pressure from figures like Stacey Abrams, who urged MLB officials to denounce Georgia’s voting law. The fear of turning the All-Star Game into a political event, coupled with potential player boycotts, contributed to the relocation.
Manfred consulted with the MLB Players Association and its Players Alliance before finalizing the decision to return the All-Star Game to Atlanta. The league’s stance emphasizes opposition to voting restrictions, echoing sentiments expressed by President Biden, who likened the law to “Jim Crow on steroids.”
Despite criticisms, Georgia saw record-breaking early voting and absentee ballot numbers, debunking claims of voter suppression. State election officials reported over 2.5 million votes cast before Election Day in a midterm election, highlighting robust voter participation in the face of legislative changes.