Conservative Activist Convicted in Voter Fraud Case

Harry Wait ordered ballots in names of local politicians to expose voting system vulnerabilities.

Mar. 25, 2026 at 3:33am

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Conservative activist Harry Wait was convicted by a Wisconsin jury of one felony count of identity theft and two misdemeanor counts of election fraud. Wait had ordered ballots in the names of prominent local politicians four years ago to highlight vulnerabilities in the state's voting system, but prosecutors determined he was the culprit. Wait faces up to seven years in prison, though he is unlikely to receive the maximum sentence.

Why it matters

This case highlights the legal risks that can arise when individuals take matters into their own hands to uncover perceived voter fraud, even if their intentions are to expose system vulnerabilities. It also comes as voter fraud remains a major political issue, with some conservatives pushing for stricter voting requirements.

The details

Wait, a 71-year-old retired business consultant and president emeritus of the group HOT Government, used Wisconsin's online portal to request ballots in the names of the state Assembly Speaker and the mayor of Racine. He then announced he had done so to highlight flaws in the system. One clerk sent him a ballot, while the other did not. Wait has said his actions, while illegal, were worth it to "save the republic."

  • In 2022, Wait ordered ballots in the names of local politicians.
  • On Tuesday night, a jury convicted Wait of the charges.
  • Wait faces a maximum penalty of seven years in prison.

The players

Harry Wait

A 71-year-old conservative activist and president emeritus of the group HOT Government, who was convicted of voter fraud charges for ordering ballots in the names of local politicians.

Robin Vos

The most powerful Republican in the Wisconsin state Assembly, whose name Wait used to order a ballot.

Cory Mason

The Democratic mayor of Racine, Wisconsin, whose name Wait used to order a ballot.

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What they’re saying

“I'd do it again in a heartbeat, because to save the republic, soldiers have to draw blood and blood be drawn.”

— Harry Wait

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Harry Wait out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the legal risks that can arise when individuals take matters into their own hands to uncover perceived voter fraud, even if their intentions are to expose system vulnerabilities. It also underscores the ongoing political debate around voter fraud and the push by some conservatives for stricter voting requirements.