Milwaukee officials have reported that more than 63,000 out of approximately 107,000 absentee ballots have been counted as of 8:30 p.m. CT. The count has been progressing swiftly after an error in setting up tabulator machines necessitated a recount of around 30,000 ballots. The city re-did all 30,000 ballots and has been making significant headway since then, although a specific estimate for completion has not been provided.
Despite the efficient recount process, Republicans have expressed concerns regarding the incident and are seeking clarification from Milwaukee authorities. Senator Ron Johnson and Wisconsin GOP chair Brian Schimming visited the central count location as election observers and engaged with the city's chief elections official.
During his visit, Senator Johnson expressed doubts about the accuracy of the count, emphasizing the importance of transparency in a pivotal swing state during a crucial election. Johnson requested access to videos of the count and the initial tabulation results of the 30,000 ballots in question, stating that the absence of such documentation raises suspicions.
In response, Milwaukee Election Commission executive director Paulina Gutierrez assured Johnson of the city's commitment to maintaining transparent and secure elections. She offered to provide all records and surveillance videos related to the count, emphasizing the city's willingness to cooperate in addressing any concerns raised.
The exchange between Johnson and Gutierrez lasted several minutes, with Gutierrez reaffirming the city's dedication to conducting safe and transparent elections. She invited Johnson to inspect one of the tabulators, further emphasizing the city's openness to scrutiny.
