MANKATO — While voters were casting ballots Tuesday morning, several residents also addressed election concerns during the Blue Earth County Board of Commissioners’ regular meeting at the Historic Courthouse.
The comments came during the public comment portion of the board’s regularly scheduled meeting, and many speakers asked the board to consider signing a circulating online pledge protecting the freedom to vote for all.
Mary Kramer, a retiring Minnesota State University professor, asked commissioners to publicly explain how the county would protect voters from intimidation, protect ballots and address election misinformation.
“I’m asking that the board inform the public, remind the public, educate the public about your existing procedures and legal safeguards for voting,” she said.
A press release with information regarding the planned comments state the hope is for officials “to focus on the crucial role that each state and county play in funding, overseeing and certifying elections to ensure they are prepared for potential illegal actions instigated by the (Trump administration) or other sources.”
Teresa Zeman, who was also serving as an election judge Tuesday, asked commissioners to publicly address election security and their responsibilities during the November general election.
Zeman said she had received training from Blue Earth County election officials and had seen the preparation that goes into running an election. She asked commissioners to commit to protecting voters and following state election laws. Barb Keith echoed their concerns, adding she had confidence in Deputy County Administrator Michael Stalberger, but was concerned about outside forces that could affect the general election.
Keith asked commissioners to abide by the U.S. Constitution and state election laws, refuse to comply with unlawful orders or data requests that seek to restrict voting and certify the rightful winners of the November election regardless of political party.
“Go above and beyond your usual actions in order to ensure all eligible voters are allowed to vote, and all eligible votes are counted and verified,” she said.
Marlene Stein-Greiner also asked commissioners to sign the pledge. She said she has heard from people who are worried about voting and believes public statements from elected officials could reassure residents that it is safe to vote and that their ballots will count.
No pledge was signed nor official action taken by the board at the time, though prior to the residents’ remarks, Chair Patty O’Connor said the board “will direct county staff to respond appropriately to issues raised.”