On the scene with Deborah Feyerick in Tallahassee

CNN Correspondent Deborah Feyerick is watching the tumult in Tallahassee, Florida, where state officials are trying to sort out the disputed ballot tallies that have stalled the outcome of the presidential election.

Deborah Feyerick

Q: What has struck you about the latest turn of events?

FEYERICK: One thing that has been particularly striking is the fact that the election itself is in court to begin with. I don't think anyone could have imagined a week ago that instead of focusing on a president-elect, everyone would be hanging on the words of a state and federal court judge.

Q: Was the outcome of the lawsuit seeking to extend the deadline for certifying the vote sort of predictable? Or were people surprised?

FEYERICK: I think one thing that certainly surprised the Democrats was that Leon County Judge Terry Lewis did not extend the deadline. They had felt positive leaving court yesterday that the judge would have at least given them until Friday. And while the judge ruled that he could not do that, he did open up avenues along which the recount must at least be considered.

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Q: Are people lining up to file lawsuits in the state capital?

FEYERICK: Not really. The lawsuits here are confined to the players we've been hearing about, specifically Volusia County, which was joined by Palm Beach County as well as Vice President Al Gore. They are on one side. On the other side is Texas Gov. George W. Bush and Florida's secretary of state. Additional lawsuits have been filed in Miami on behalf of voters. But here in the state capital, the lawsuits are limited.

Q: Do Florida government officials seem shocked or dismayed by the wrangling going on about the election process?

FEYERICK: State officials are pretty much going about their business. They're keeping a low profile for the most part and just letting this play itself out.

Q: Have you seen any incidents of ugliness between protesters?

FEYERICK: No, not really. Protesters are just seeking face-time on television.