Iowans are speaking out, calling for every vote to be counted in a close race for Iowa’s first congressional district. Just zero point two percent separates incumbent Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks from former Iowa Representative Christina Bohannon, a number that equates to less than two votes per precinct. The Associated Press has also not called the race as of Friday morning.
IA01 voters call for every vote to be counted
“We’re all going to need to remain patient, because it’s really important that we allow time for all votes to be counted. Everyone deserves to have their vote counted and their voice heard.”
- Janice Weiner, Iowa State Senator, Iowa City
“We will disenfranchise voters if every vote isn’t counted. I saw firsthand the enthusiasm voters in Scott County had to cast their ballot as I volunteered going door to door. Voters were ready to have their voices heard. Taking our time to count every vote is fair to every voter because the results are so close and every vote matters so much.”
- Susan Stoefen, Iowa City
“I’ve seen firsthand how certain ballots can be undercounted and it is so important that those votes not get lost in the shuffle. Everyone who took the time to cast their vote deserves to have it counted, regardless of who they voted for.”
- Jerry Uhlman, Carlisle
“In Iowa, we have elections, not coronations. The voters get to choose their elected officials – politicians don’t get to pick and choose which votes count. My vote and every vote deserves to be counted.”
- Cindy Pollard, Newton
Hypocrisy Alert: Republican Chair Kaufmann called for slow, double-checking in past
Before every vote has been counted, Congresswoman Miller-Meeks and the Iowa Republican Party have declared victory, effectively deciding which votes should matter and which do not. Despite their claim of victory, the Associated Press has not called the race in favor of Miller-Meeks.
In the past, Kaufmann has called for what he described as “double-counting and double-checking” votes, saying it’s better for the process to be slow and right.
This article in the Des Moines Register shows the full context of Kaufmann’s past comments, which even further highlight his hypocrisy:
“Every vote should count, regardless of who they voted for,” said Matt Sinovic, executive director of Progress Iowa. “The blatant hypocrisy on display by Iowa Republicans show they care more about their political power than making sure every voter’s voice is heard.”
