Madison Clerk Placed on Leave Amid Investigation of 200 Uncounted Ballots

Madison City Clerk Maribeth Witzel-Behl has been placed on paid administrative leave as an investigation unfolds regarding nearly 200 absentee ballots that went uncounted during the November 2024 election. Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway stated that this decision was necessary to maintain public confidence in the Clerk's office ahead of the April 1 election, which features significant races including for the Wisconsin Supreme Court. City Attorney Michael Haas will assume the role of acting city clerk during this period, bringing extensive experience in election law to the position. The Wisconsin Elections Commission is also conducting an investigation, having voted to compel city officials to provide depositions on the matter. Additionally, a class action lawsuit has been initiated by a liberal firm on behalf of voters affected by the uncounted ballots. The commission's scrutiny highlights procedural errors, including the premature printing of poll books that contributed to the ballot mishandling.