WILKES-BARRE -- Pennsylvania’s May primary is less than two months away, and the Luzerne County Board of Elections says it's worried it may not be ready in time.
The board sent a letter to the Luzerne County manager and council Friday. The letter says the board is concerned races in the election could be "compromised" and it blames that on the actions of county manager Robert Lawton.
The letter goes on to say the level of staffing in the Luzerne County Bureau of Elections office is so concerning that, "We, the Election Board of Luzerne County cannot vouch for the Election Bureau's readiness...without the danger of serious errors."
"There just aren`t enough people and the people they appointed have no experience running an election," said Board of Elections Chairman Jeremy Packard.
"I can see it as a concern for people who want to make sure their voices are heard and they have a vote, because it`s our right as citizens of America," said Rachel Hodgins of Wilkes-Barre.
"From what I read, it seems like not enough people around full-time," said King`s College student Andrew Hubiak.
But county manager Robert Lawton dismissed those concerns.
"We have experienced staff on hand and I have every confidence the primary will be carried out without incident," Lawton said.
We reached out to the Elections Bureau director but he's on vacation. The Pennsylvania primary election is May 19.
The entire letter can be read here: Luzerne County Election Board Resolution On Election Bureau Staffing
