Philadelphia On Guard For Election Day Irregularities
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Philadelphia's district attorney wants to hear from any city voters who facing polling place irregularities tomorrow.
District attorney Seth Williams (above right) said on Monday that he wants to get the word out: if city residents spot any polling place nonsense -- including potential acts to suppress the vote -- they should call his office:
"If any Philadelphians are intimidated or if there are any attempts to suppress the vote in any manifestation, call our office so that we can get out and actually investigate it, take statements, to ensure an orderly Election Day."
Two other groups will be watching Philadelphia voting. The city commissioners' office handles any problems with the voting machines themselves. And the independent watchdog group Committee of Seventy is monitoring potential problems throughout the entire region.
Committee of Seventy president Zack Stalberg (at left in photo) says they've received a few reports of absentee ballots being returned to their senders. It's unclear if this is a widespread problem, and elections officials may ask to have the absentee ballot deadline extended.
The DA's office can be reached at 215-686-9641. The city commissioners' office is 215-686-7800. And the Committee of 70's toll-free phone number is 866-687-8683.
Reported by KYW City Hall Bureau Chief Mike Dunn.
