Trump Administration Challenges Wisconsin Elections Commission Over Complaint Process
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The Trump administration has accused the Wisconsin Elections Commission of failing to provide a state-mandated complaint process for voters alleging misconduct by the commission, claiming it violates federal law. In a recent letter from the Department of Justice, officials threatened to withhold all federal funding unless a remedy is implemented.
Democratic Chairwoman Ann Jacobs countered the accusations, stating, “There is no federal funding to cut,” and arguing that it’s impractical for the commission to adjudicate complaints against itself. “What they’re asking is, if someone files a complaint against us, we’re supposed to hold a hearing to determine if we messed up. That is not functional,” she expressed.
The Justice Department has emphasized that the lack of a formal procedure leaves complainants without recourse regarding violations under the Help America Vote Act (HAVA). This is the second instance within a week that the administration has targeted election officials in battleground states, following similar claims against North Carolina’s election board.
The controversy arises from Wisconsin’s receipt of over $77 million in federal funds for election assistance. While officials warn of potential funding cuts, Jacobs clarified that the state currently receives no federal funding and that past allocations have already been disbursed.
In response to the ongoing scrutiny, the Republican-led budget committee in Wisconsin has postponed decisions regarding the commission’s state funding for the next two years. Co-chair Sen. Howard Marklein remarked on the need for caution, stating, “We need to analyze this and see what implications are made.”
As the situation develops, the Wisconsin Elections Commission is reviewing the DOJ’s letter and remains committed to adhering to state law amid external pressures.
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