# Counting the vote and the need for transparency
*2020-11-04*

> Bill Young and John O'Rourke discuss the contested 2020 election results across several key states and emphasize the importance of legal ballot observation.

## A Prayer for Perseverance

We begin today's episode with a prayer to Saint Dimna for perseverance. In these uncertain times, we need the grace to remain faithful to God to the end and to live each day as if it were our last.

## Analyzing the Swing States

Looking at the current numbers, there are several states still in question. In Arizona, there are still hundreds of thousands of votes remaining to be counted. We believe many of these are day-of votes, which typically trend Republican. It seems premature for the media to call these states when a significant percentage of the vote is still outstanding.

North Carolina is another point of confusion. While some media outlets report that only 94% of the vote is in, there are indications from the state's election office that 100% of precincts have been counted. This discrepancy suggests a narrative is being pushed by the media that doesn't align with the official state data.

## Transparency and 'Packing the Votes'

The situation in Pennsylvania, particularly in Philadelphia, is deeply troubling. By law, poll workers from both parties must be allowed to observe the counting of each ballot to ensure they are legal—checking postmarks and signatures. However, we've heard reports that Republican observers were kept too far away to actually see the ballots.

When observers are excluded, it opens the door for 'packing and stacking' the votes. If the law is not followed, the process is not transparent. We believe that if justice prevails and the courts insist on a proper recount with bipartisan observation, the true results will emerge.

## Concerns Over Election Integrity

Beyond Pennsylvania, we see issues in Michigan and Wisconsin. In Detroit, there were reports of same-day registrations and voting, which raises questions about potential fraud. We are seeing a pattern where the media decides the winner before the states have actually certified the results. It is crucial that the campaign continues to fight for the right to ensure every legal vote is counted properly and that no unfair advantages are taken.

## The Power of Prayer

As Catholics, the best thing we can do during this turmoil is to pray. We encourage everyone to pray the Rosary and join in communal prayer. We are specifically calling for prayers for the city of Philadelphia and for all those involved in the electoral process, asking that the truth prevail.

*The only way to ensure a fair result is through total transparency and strict adherence to the law regarding ballot observation.*