Uncovering the Uncounted: Wisconsin's Election Oversight Scandal

Nearly 200 absentee ballots went uncounted in Madison, Wisconsin, after the November election. The Wisconsin Elections Commission is investigating if city clerk Maribeth Wetzel-Biehl violated state laws as delays in disclosure raised concerns. The oversight didn't impact election outcomes, but procedures are being reviewed.

In an unexpected election oversight, nearly 200 absentee ballots went uncounted in Wisconsin's capital, Madison, prompting an investigation by the state election officials. The focus is on whether City Clerk Maribeth Wetzel-Biehl disregarded state regulations.

Concerns emerged when the Wisconsin Elections Commission learned of the situation over a month after the elections, raising questions about procedural compliance in Wetzel-Biehl's office. Commission Chair Ann Jacobs emphasized the gravity of the lapse as they certified election results on November 29.

Although the oversight didn't alter any races or referendums, it highlights ongoing procedural issues, including past distribution errors involving duplicate ballots. Wetzel-Biehl expressed her willingness to cooperate with the investigation to prevent future incidents.

(With inputs from agencies.)