The Sconi

Senatorial candidate Eric Hovde released a statement addressing what he views as irregularities in the recent Wisconsin Senate election. Citing discrepancies in voting patterns and absentee ballot counts, Hovde expressed doubt over the legitimacy of the results.

In a statement posted to X on Nov. 12 by News Director Eric Daugherty, by 1 a.m. on election night, data models indicated that he was headed for a likely victory. However, by 4 a.m., Milwaukee reported roughly 108,000 absentee ballots, of which 90% favored his opponent, Senator Tammy Baldwin. 

“Statistically, this outcome seems improbable as it didn't match the patterns from same-day voting in Milwaukee where I received 22% of the votes,” Hovde said.

Hovde alleged further inconsistencies, pointing to unusually high voter turnout in some Milwaukee precincts—exceeding 150% to 200% of registered voters. He also noted a population decline and decrease in registered voters in Milwaukee since the 2020 presidential election, yet his opponent’s vote totals were nearly identical to those received by President Joe Biden in 2020.

“This was accomplished by same-day registration that surged by almost 50% on a rainy day,” Hovde said.

Beyond the vote count, Hovde claims that Democrats organized a fake “America First” candidate, Thomas Leger, to split the conservative vote. According to Hovde, Leger’s presence on the ballot cost him 28,724 votes, while another candidate, Libertarian Phil Anderson, drew 42,344 votes through targeted mailers and digital campaigns allegedly funded by Democrats. 

“If either of these candidates had not been in the race, the outcome would be different today,” Hovde said.“Is this right and fair to deceive voters? Is this the democratic process we want? Confidence in our elections is essential to a functioning democracy.”

Hovde also took aim at Wisconsin’s voter roll maintenance, claiming that the state's election commissions have failed to update and clean the rolls adequately. He noted a disparity between the 8 million registered voters and the 3.5 million active voters, questioning the state's commitment to election integrity.

“What happened in this election does not inspire confidence in our process, and that is wrong,” Hovde said. “Throughout my campaign, I've emphasized the need to come together, restore trust in our elections, reduce divisions, and focus on building a better Wisconsin for everyone.”

Hovde concluded by emphasizing the need for transparency and trust in the electoral process, indicating he would decide on a potential recount or further actions once all information is available.

Hovde was born and raised in Madison, Wisconsin, according to his campaign website. He attended college at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He is an entrepreneur and founded the charitable organization The Hovde Foundation with his brother.