In a recent government meeting, significant discussions emerged regarding the ongoing statewide manual recount of ballots, the first of its kind since 2004. The recount, which is taking place in Cowlitz County, involves approximately 30,000 ballots from the primary election, with over 18,500 already recounted in just one day. The auditor overseeing the process emphasized the transparency of the recount, inviting observers to witness the procedure firsthand and even offering a live stream for those unable to attend in person.

The recount process is meticulously structured, with teams sorting ballots by candidate and conducting multiple counts to ensure accuracy. Supervisors are present to verify counts, and discrepancies are addressed through additional recounts if necessary. The auditor noted that so far, there have been no discrepancies in the counts completed.

The meeting also touched on the importance of restoring public confidence in the electoral process, with officials acknowledging the scrutiny and public interest surrounding the recount. The auditor highlighted the involvement of political parties in monitoring the process, indicating a collaborative effort to ensure transparency and accuracy.

In a notable exchange, concerns were raised about the integrity of the voting technology used, prompting discussions on the need for thorough verification of results at both the county and state levels. The auditor assured attendees that all procedures had been reviewed and approved by the Secretary of State's office, and that final results would be published online for public access.

As the recount progresses, officials are keenly aware of the historical significance of the event, particularly given the narrow margin of separation—only 51 ballots out of nearly 1.9 million statewide. The meeting underscored a commitment to accountability and transparency in the electoral process, aiming to reassure voters and uphold the integrity of future elections.