RNC sues Racine over GOP election inspectors

MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The Republican National Committee has sued the City of Racine claiming they failed to hire enough GOP election workers during the August primary.

In the lawsuit, attorneys for the RNC allege the Racine city clerk allowed unaffiliated poll workers to serve as election inspectors during the Aug. 13 primary instead of selecting members previously nominated by the Republican Party.

“Racine deliberately excluded Republicans and violated the law. We are suing to hire the number of Republicans that Wisconsin law requires, stop Democrat interference, and uphold election integrity for our country’s most important election," said RNC Chairman Michael Whatley.

Those who worked the polls that day include eight Republicans, seven Democrats and 90 unaffiliated individuals, according to the lawsuit filed on Sept. 13.

Racine City Clerk Tara McMenamin dismissed the legal challenge, calling it "meritless."

“The City of Racine is committed to hiring election officials who meet all statutory requirements, irrespective of political affiliation," McMenamin said.

"In anticipation of potential increases in meritless litigation leading up to the presidential election, we are steadfast in maintaining consistent standards. We will continue to adhere to all state and federal laws and provide comprehensive training to ensure that all election officials are fully qualified and well prepared to serve city residents on this upcoming Election Day.”

You can read the lawsuit here.