A South Dakota legislative committee voted unanimously Thursday to subpoena Secretary of State Monae Johnson after she canceled her expected appearance. Lawmakers want answers about election equipment contracts and allegations raised by the South Dakota Canvassing Group, which opposes tabulation machines and claims uncertified laptops were used in some counties.
Committee Chair Sen. Taffy Howard said Johnson’s absence disregards both the committee and the public. The panel is using new subpoena powers granted earlier this year to compel testimony without additional approval.
Lawmakers also seek clarity on spending tied to voter registration and reporting systems, and concerns about a vendor linked to a multi-state database under scrutiny for privacy issues. Johnson’s office has not responded to requests for comment.
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