Of course. I don't mean that it's impossible, but I've noticed it on a few of the events that something seemed off. Like favoritism was in play (or in this extreme case manipulation and bribes) Because there would be amazing pieces that didn't get many votes and or weren't nominated because they didn't get enough likes in the submission thread.
For example how are we to know that this issue didn't happen way before during the submission thread? I don't know, I never thought people would stoop this low for digital trinkets. All of the nomination threads have had some entries cut out and the ornament one had the most because it was halved. It's a shame not only for the people who worked hard to get nominated, but what about the members who worked really hard and could had gotten nominated if foulplay wasn't involved? I always work hard on my entries. Granted I know I'll never get nominated, but it still puts a damper on the whole situation regardless if I have a chance or not.
This issue also resurfaced memories of members messaging me about this very situation from like 2020 or 2021 before I was serious about the forum or the events. I just ignored their messages and didn't think anything of it. So this has probably been an ongoing issue and no one was caught until now. I apologize for not bringing it to the staffs attention, because I honestly forgot until now.
I've always thought that even the submission threads should be private until the deadline. I don't know, I feel like not everyone is going to continuously look at the submissions so people who submit later seem like they'd be at a disadvantage. Just my two cents.
Overall its a messy situation, but the staff handled it very well.