Ballot shortages reported throughout Waukesha County

Feb. 16, 2016

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By Mary Spicuzza of the Journal Sentinel

Feb. 16, 2016 0

Waukesha County has been experiencing countywide ballot shortages.

"We've been aware of ballot shortages in Waukesha County — including Brookfield, Menomonee Falls, and Pewaukee," said Reid Magney, a spokesman for the state elections agency.

Waukesha County Clerk Kathleen Novack acknowledged Tuesday night that she should have ordered more ballots for the spring primary.

"No doubt I undershot the order," she said.

But she said that election workers have been scrambling to supply additional ballots, adding "to this point, everyone has been able to vote."

Novack noted that the state Government Accountability Board had predicted voter turnout to be just 10%, although that was a statewide projection.

She estimated that turnout in Waukesha County was at least double that amount, saying it was 20% to 25% countywide.

"The turnout has just been incredible," Novack said.

The only high-profile race on voters' ballots in Waukesha County is the state Supreme Court race, which involves a three-way primary. Voters statewide will narrow the field from three to two for the seat.

Republican Gov. Scott Walker appointed Rebecca Bradley to the high court in October to fill the seat of Justice N. Patrick Crooks, who died in September. Challenging her for the full 10-year term on the court are Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Joe Donald and Appeals Court Judge JoAnne Kloppenburg.