The Wisconsin Supreme Court has reinstated the use of absentee ballot drop boxes for the 2024 election, reversing its previous 2022 ruling. This decision, driven by the court's new liberal majority, highlights the ongoing debate over voting accessibility and election security in the state (Democracy Docket) (DNyuz).
The 2020 election saw extensive use of drop boxes due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which was praised for making absentee voting more accessible. However, following claims of potential voting irregularities, the conservative majority in the Wisconsin Supreme Court had limited their use to only the offices of election clerks in a 2022 ruling (Democracy Docket).
Proponents of drop boxes, including Governor Tony Evers and various voting rights organizations, argue that they provide a secure and convenient method for absentee voters to submit their ballots, especially those who face challenges accessing clerk offices during regular hours. They emphasize that the 2020 election showed the effectiveness and reliability of drop boxes, with a minimal percentage of late ballots (Democracy Docket) (WXPR).
Opponents, primarily from the Republican-controlled state legislature and conservative groups, maintain that the state law does not explicitly authorize the use of drop boxes. They argue that the previous restrictions are necessary to maintain election integrity and prevent potential abuses (Democracy Docket).
The Wisconsin Elections Commission supports the reinstatement, stating that drop boxes facilitate voter participation by providing more options for ballot submission. They contend that drop boxes are essential for ensuring that all ballots are counted timely, particularly in light of postal service delays (Democracy Docket) (DNyuz).
The court's decision to revisit and overturn its 2022 ruling underscores the impact of its ideological shift and sets the stage for how absentee voting will be handled in the upcoming election. This move is seen as a victory for advocates of voting accessibility, who argue that restrictive measures disproportionately affect voters with limited resources and access (Democracy Docket) (DNyuz).
This case in Wisconsin reflects broader national conversations about voting rights, accessibility, and security, illustrating the complex balance between making voting easier and safeguarding electoral integrity. As states continue to grapple with these issues, Wisconsin's ruling could serve as a precedent for other jurisdictions facing similar debates (WXPR) (DNyuz).
