Ginsberg, Bauer to Observe Milwaukee Election Equipment Testing

Legal experts will monitor local election hardware testing alongside Wisconsin community members this Thursday.

Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Civic Engagement

Isometric editorial illustration of a heavy-duty metal transport case, representing institutional election security procedures. — Legal experts Ben Ginsberg and Bob Bauer are observing Milwaukee's public election equipment testing this Thursday to increase administrative transparency. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Does observing election equipment testing make you more confident in your local voting process?

National legal veterans Ben Ginsberg and Bob Bauer are set to observe the public testing of Milwaukee election equipment on October 24, 2026. Nearly 20 members from the Wisconsin Pillars of the Community organization will join them for the event.

Why it matters

The effort seeks to bolster public confidence in the electoral process by providing local leaders with direct education on voting administration. By interacting with election officials and experts, participants gain a deeper understanding of how equipment is maintained.

The Pillars of the Community program currently operates in Wisconsin and six additional states. Nearly 20 local members are confirmed to attend the testing process in Milwaukee.

The players

Ben Ginsberg

He is a prominent attorney who served as national counsel for the presidential campaigns of George W. Bush and Mitt Romney.

Bob Bauer

He previously held the position of White House Counsel to President Barack Obama and served as counsel to his presidential campaigns.

Wisconsin Pillars of the Community

This local organization is part of a broader, multi-state initiative aimed at educating leaders on election administration to increase public trust.

The details

Founded in 2024, the Pillars of the Community initiative brings together figures like Ben Ginsberg and Bob Bauer to facilitate knowledge sharing among community leaders. Participants utilize these sessions to discuss election procedures and translate that administrative information for their local neighborhoods.

The Pillars of the Community effort was established in 2024.
The public testing of election equipment in Milwaukee is scheduled for October 24, 2026.

Political Context

Opponents or skeptics of these types of initiatives often argue that external observation could inadvertently politicize routine administrative procedures. They emphasize that professional election officials, rather than community leaders, should remain the primary custodians of voting security.

Residents can expect transparency regarding the machines used to cast their ballots, though the testing itself will not change local election dates or voting procedures. The event serves as a platform for community leaders to verify that equipment functions correctly ahead of upcoming cycles.

The takeaway

Transparency in election hardware can serve as a bridge between the public and the officials who manage voting infrastructure. Residents interested in civic transparency may consider attending future public demonstrations or contacting local election boards for informational materials.