Ongoing Debate: Legislating Absentee Ballot Drop Boxes in Wisconsin
MADISON, WI – The use of absentee ballot drop boxes remains a contentious issue in Wisconsin. Following the 2020 election, the Republican-controlled State Legislature has repeatedly advanced measures to restrict their use, citing concerns about election security. These efforts occur within a complex legal and political landscape, shaped by a key 2022 Wisconsin Supreme Court ruling and vetoes from Democratic Governor Tony Evers.
Proposed Legislative Restrictions
Bills introduced by legislative Republicans have typically sought to codify and potentially expand upon the court's ruling by explicitly regulating or further limiting drop box usage. Common proposals include:
- Permitting drop boxes only inside municipal clerk offices during staffed hours.
- Explicitly prohibiting unstaffed or outdoor drop box locations.
- Banning mobile voting sites or temporary drop boxes.
- Detailing strict chain-of-custody requirements for collected ballots.
Arguments for Stricter Rules
Proponents argue these measures are vital for election integrity, aiming to prevent potential ballot tampering or illegal ballot collection ('ballot harvesting'). They contend that limiting drop boxes to secure, monitored locations inside government buildings boosts public confidence in the electoral process. State Representative Janelle Brandtjen, previously Chair of the Assembly Committee on Elections, has been a vocal advocate, stating such measures are crucial for ensuring votes are cast and counted securely and fairly.
Concerns About Voter Access
Opponents, including voting rights groups and Democrats, argue these restrictions create unnecessary barriers for voters. They highlight potential negative impacts on:
- Voters in rural areas facing long drives to the clerk's office.
- Elderly or disabled voters with mobility challenges.
- Voters with inflexible work schedules unable to visit offices during business hours.
Governor's Vetoes and Political Stalemate
Governor Tony Evers has consistently opposed legislative efforts to further restrict absentee voting, vetoing multiple election-related bills passed by Republicans. He argues these bills hinder voter access without evidence of widespread fraud. Overcoming a gubernatorial veto requires a two-thirds majority in both legislative chambers, a high threshold not typically met due to the partisan divide in Madison.
What's Next for Wisconsin Voters?
Absent a change in the state's political dynamics or new court rulings, the status quo established by the 2022 Supreme Court decision (limiting drop boxes primarily to clerk's offices or designated staffed sites) is likely to persist. The debate over balancing election security concerns with voter access continues to be a central theme in Wisconsin politics, reflecting broader national discussions on election administration.