Election to move forward, despite calls for delay

NOW: Election to move forward, despite calls for delay

MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) – Despite a multitude of complications and calls to delay the spring election, it is still set to move forward for its April 7 date.

“We don’t want people to risk their lives in order to cast a vote,” Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders said during an appearance on MSNBC. “I think the proper process is, as quickly as possible, for all states to allow people to vote by mail.”

In a Marquette University Law School Poll released Wednesday, 51 percent of respondents said the date of the election should be moved while 44 percent said it should remain the same.

Meanwhile, in an amicus brief filed ahead of a federal court hearing on the election, Governor Evers said he will utilize the Wisconsin Army National Guard to help with Election Day staffing. However, the brief noted that, “it is anticipated that the assistance of the National Guard will not satisfy all the current staffing needs.”

During a teleconference, Republican leaders said they are in support of that idea.

“It’s a creative way to help solve the problem,” Assembly Speaker Robin Vos (R-Rochester) said.

Republican leadership, like Governor Evers, have stayed consistent in holding the election on April 7 and not moving it. Even though jurisdictions across the state report poll worker shortages as well as the need to consolidate polling places on Election Day, lawmakers believe the election can and must move forward.

“I think we are up to this task and it sounds like it’s going to get done,” Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald (R-Juneau) said.

Vos said he and his wife will volunteer at polls in Burlington and Rochester on Election day and call on healthy Wisconsinites to do the same.

“If you are bored at home and sick of watching Netflix, volunteer to work at the polls,” Vos said. “We need people to step up.”

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