MADISON, Wis. — The Madison City Clerk’s office said it is ahead of schedule preparing for the Nov. 8 election.
With heightened scrutiny of election security, there may be more people showing up to watch the election process. Observing the election process is a right under state law.
However, some have raised concerns about potential privacy violations and intimidation to poll workers from observers if they don’t adhere to the rules.
A University of Wisconsin survey of more than 50 Dane County clerks showed that more than 80% of clerks have seen a rise in threats against them in recent years. That’s on par with national numbers, where some election officials are even leaving their posts.
Earlier this week, a Republican motion in front of the Wisconsin Elections Commission that would’ve allowed observers to get closer to voters failed along party lines. One in three election officials across the country said they know at least one election work who has left their job “due to safety concerns, increased threats or intimidation.”
Mike Haas, a Madison city attorney, said observers are part of the voting process in Wisconsin, but there are guidelines they have to adhere to.
“Obviously, the public is welcome to be at the polls. We have rules for observers, we ask everybody to follow those rules, and to be civil,” Haas said. “If you see something that you have a question about, try to find an opportunity to ask the chief election inspector. Don’t jump to conclusions, usually there’s an explanation.”
Haas said the chief inspector at each polling place holds the power to keep the peace at their respective location.
In August, the City of Madison passed a new ordinance that enhanced penalties for people who harass or threaten poll workers under the disorderly conduct statute.
Voters no longer have the option to spoil their previously turned in absentee ballot, after a Waukesha County judge’s ruling. However, the case is still being decided by higher courts. The option was used more in August, when candidates dropped out of the primary but were still on the ballot. Election officials said they don’t expect the change to make much of a difference in the midterms.
“Most voters don’t really utilize spoiling of absentee ballots,” said Madison Deputy Clerk Jim Verbick. “I would say we really only saw in the last election — the August election — as candidates were dropping out of the primary. But prior to that, I don’t think we really ever saw anyone wanting to spoil their ballot, at least not in any significant numbers.”
The Madison City Clerk’s office will do routine public testing of the election equipment on Saturday, Oct. 29. Anyone is welcome to observe.