Connecticut Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas has disclosed that her office has forwarded multiple complaints regarding the Bridgeport mayoral election re-do to the State Election Enforcement Commission (SEEC), including allegations of offering cash for completed absentee ballots.
There have been reports from voters who received absentee ballots despite not requesting them. One voter reported that an individual arrived at his home to assist with his ballot, had him sign unknown paperwork, and took his ballot.
A report of a campaign offering cash in exchange for completed absentee ballots. Suspicious activity at drop boxes was discovered during a review of surveillance camera footage.
Bridgeport ballot box (Credits: Vox)
The complaints referred to the SEEC include:
Thomas emphasized that these referrals are not indicative of wrongdoing but are crucial steps to ensure the security of elections.
State GOP leaders have described the reports as a “devastating reminder” that bad actors can manipulate election outcomes in Connecticut without consequence.
They have urged for more robust measures to safeguard election integrity, including imposing mandatory penalties for criminal election violations.
Thomas is set to testify on two bills addressing loopholes in the election process during Monday’s public hearing in the Government Administration and Elections Committee.
Bridgeport ballot box (Credits: Vox)
The bills include HB 5498, which proposes surveillance of absentee ballot drop boxes, and SB 441, which suggests establishing a board to oversee election issues beyond the jurisdiction of the Secretary of the State’s Office or the SEEC.
Thomas reiterated her commitment to advocating for election security beyond the final Election Day in Bridgeport, stressing the importance of legislative action to safeguard the integrity of Connecticut’s electoral process.
