The recount of ballots on Sunday, June 30, in Washoe County has ignited more controversy and raised serious questions about the transparency and integrity of the election process.
Initially, the county denied media access to the observation area during the recount for three candidates challenging the results from the June 11 primary. After about 45 minutes and mounting pressure, the press was allowed in.
Critics argue that the machine recount, ordered and certified by Clara Andriola, is a repeat of the same process with the same expected results. The core issue, they contend, is the county’s refusal to conduct a hand count recount, which had been fully funded by the Franklin Project, demanded by both the candidates and the organization, and Nevada law mandates.
The refusal has led to three lawsuits, three injunctions, and three temporary restraining orders by the candidates. Critics say the recount should not have happened until a judge could rule on the appropriate method. Instead, the county proceeded with the machine recount on a Sunday, bypassing the judicial process.
The Franklin Project and the candidates argue that a hand recount is essential for checks and balances, accountability, and transparency. They assert that simply running the ballots through the same machines will not uncover any discrepancies or errors that may have occurred.
Despite concerns, the county appears to have manipulated the narrative by controlling media coverage and dismissing the demands for a hand recount. Opponents claim the approach undermines public trust and disenfranchises voters from all political affiliations.
The recount results will be certified on Tuesday at 8 a.m. at the Board of County Commissioners meeting location. Opponents of the machine recount are urging the public to show up peacefully and voice their concerns. They argue that this issue affects all voters, regardless of party affiliation, and for greater transparency and adherence to the law.
The ongoing controversy has left many questioning what the county might be hiding and why it is resistant to providing the same level of scrutiny and verification that is standard in other areas of public life. Critics say that the actions are damaging the perception of free and fair elections and are calling for an end to such practices.
As the debate continues, the public is left to wonder why the county is so opposed to a hand recount and what it might mean for the future of election integrity in Washoe County.
The Old Blog in the Desert 
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