GAB says complaint over vote by Vos' wife criminal matter

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By Tony Galli - bio | email

MADISON (WKOW) -- A state Government Accountability Board official says a complaint over a lawmaker's wife's vote in the April primary election, when she was a resident of Idaho, is a criminal matter.

Eagle River resident Roberta Retrum filed a complaint earlier this month over a vote cast by Samantha Vos, the wife of Republican lawmaker Robin Vos.

In a letter obtained by 27 News, GAB Ethics and Accountability Administrator Jonathan Becker told Retrum if a violation of Wisconsin's residency requirements for voting occurred, there are only criminal penalties for such an act.

Retrum's complaint states Samantha Vos voted in Wisconsin's April 3 election, despite having sworn in an affidavit to an Idaho court she was a resident of that state. Vos' declaration was part of a legal separation between Vos and her lawmaker husband.

Vos voted in Rochester in Racine County.

In the letter, Becker recommends the complaint be filed with Racine County District Attorney Rich Chiapete. Retrum tells 27 News she intends to file a complaint Friday with Chiapete.

Vos has made no comment on her vote.

Through a spokesperson, Rep. Vos (R-Rochester) has said his wife's vote was her matter.