Wisconsin elections board keeps distance rules in place

MADISON (AP) -- Wisconsin's elections board has reaffirmed its rules governing how close observers can get to workers at the polls on Election Day. 

A number of people and the Republican Party of Wisconsin raised complaints about the rule at the Government Accountability Board's meeting Tuesday, October 23rd.

The board voted 5-1 to keep the rule in place that says observers should stay at least six-feet away from poll workers.

Members of the public told the board that was not close enough to observe proof of residence documents those registering to vote at the polls may show. In particular, they raised concerns about being able to see documents being presented electronically over cellphones.

Board staff attorney Mike Haas says allowing observers to be any closer would not be conducive to holding a calm election.