Democratic Operative in Montana Caught in Ballot Box Tampering Scandal

A Democrat operative in Montana has been caught on surveillance footage tampering with an election ballot drop box, raising serious concerns just weeks ahead of the state’s crucial Senate race. The individual, identified as Laszlo Gendler, was seen attempting to tear the ballot box off the wall in Glacier County, according to video obtained by Fox News. Gendler has been linked to the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC), which is supporting Senator Jon Tester in his race against Republican candidate Tim Sheehy.

The Montana Secretary of State’s office confirmed that the Glacier County election administrator contacted them regarding the suspicious activity. Richie Melby, Communications Director for Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen, stated that the surveillance footage shows Gendler tampering with the ballot box. Melby described the situation as "highly suspicious and concerning."

- Crystal R. Cole, Glacier County’s Election Administrator, noted in an email that Gendler, when questioned, claimed he was sent by the Montana Democratic Party to check the security of the box. However, the Democratic Party failed to notify the Elections Office of any such inspection, making the incident appear deliberate.

- Gendler’s connection to the DSCC, as revealed by OpenSecrets.org, adds a layer of political intrigue to the scandal. The DSCC is working to help incumbent Senator Tester, who is trailing in recent polls. An October New York Times/Siena poll shows Tester down 52-44 to GOP candidate Tim Sheehy. Tester’s seat is one of the key battlegrounds that could determine the balance of power in the Senate, where Republicans are just two seats shy of a majority.

This incident comes at a critical time for the Montana Senate race, where GOP candidate Tim Sheehy has been gaining ground. The outcome of this race is crucial, as a Republican victory would not only shift the balance of power in the Senate but could have far-reaching implications on key issues, including the confirmation of future Supreme Court justices.

As the investigation into Gendler's actions continues, the Montana Secretary of State’s office is working with Glacier County law enforcement to ensure the integrity of the election. For now, Gendler’s attempt to tamper with the ballot box has been thwarted, but the political ramifications of this scandal may continue to play out as Election Day approaches.

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