Madison Reporter

Madison Clerk Maribeth Witzel-Behl has been placed on paid administrative leave as the city investigates uncounted absentee ballots from the November election and other performance-related issues. The Mayor's Office will update the public on the investigation's progress when possible, but further details are currently unavailable.

City Attorney Michael Haas will serve as Acting City Clerk during Witzel-Behl’s absence, ensuring office operations continue smoothly. Haas, who has a background with the Wisconsin Elections Commission, will also maintain his role as City Attorney.

The city plans to allocate additional resources to support the Clerk’s Office during this period, focusing on preparations for the April 1 election and maintaining normal operations. Adjustments in assignments within both the Clerk’s Office and City Attorney’s Office may occur as necessary.

“Given the nature of the issues being investigated, we felt this was a necessary step to maintain public confidence in the operations of our Clerk’s office,” said Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway. “The City of Madison places an incredibly high value on our ability to conduct elections to the highest standards, and will spare no City resource to ensure that each vote is counted for the upcoming election.”

“I am completely confident in the ability of the highly trained, incredibly competent professional staff at the Clerk’s Office to continue the operations of the office without interruption, including conducting the upcoming spring general election,” said Acting City Clerk Haas. “I look forward to working with them to ensure a secure, transparent, and safe election.”