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 aspects of her performance. In a statement, the mayor’s office said it will provide updates as the investigation progresses but has not released further details on the personnel matter.
City Attorney Michael Haas will serve as acting city clerk during Witzel-Behl’s absence while continuing his role as city attorney. Haas, a former administrator and legal counsel for the Wisconsin Elections Commission, brings extensive experience in elections and administrative law.
To ensure a smooth transition, the city is allocating additional resources to the clerk’s cffice, particularly in preparation for the April 1 election. Adjustments in assignments within both the clerk’s and city attorney’s offices will be made as necessary.
“Given the nature of the issues being investigated, we felt this was a necessary step to maintain public confidence in our elections,” said Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway. She emphasized the city’s commitment to upholding election integrity and ensuring all votes are properly counted.
Acting Clerk Haas expressed full confidence in the clerk’s office staff, highlighting their professionalism and ability to conduct a secure, transparent, and safe election without disruption.
