Some Democrats even come close to echoing Trump's charge that re-tallying votes from the presidential race is just a "scam" being advanced by Stein, who has raised more than $6 million to fund potential recounts in Wisconsin, Michigan and Pennsylvania, three states critical to the Republican nominee's win.
"It's a waste of time and money. It is not going to change anything," said Democratic strategist Joe Trippi, who served as campaign manager for former Vermont Gov. Howard Dean's 2004 presidential campaign.
"I think it probably was the Stein people looking for a way to stay relevant, raise some money and take the stink off of them. Instead of everybody screaming, 'You made Trump happen,' she is counting the votes to change that whole narrative."
Stein has pushed back vigorously against such criticism. She acknowledges that the recounts are unlikely to change the election's outcome, even if they proceed in all three states, which is far from guaranteed. But she says it is a worthwhile exercise aimed at ensuring elections are conducted fairly.
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