Early in-person voting has started strong in Wisconsin for the 2024 Presidential Election. Following significant efforts by various organizations encouraging voters to “bank your ballot,” the state has seen a notable increase in participation during the first five days of the two-week early voting period that began on Tuesday, October 22nd.
However, the launch was marred by major technical issues. On the first two days, the Wisconsin Election Commission (WEC) faced a meltdown of its database, leading to long lines, hours of delays, confusion, and bandwidth shortages. As a result, many voters were asked to return another day to cast their absentee ballots. Despite these challenges, voters persisted, contributing to a surge in early voting.
Former President Donald Trump has encouraged his supporters to vote early, marking a shift from his previous stance, which cast doubts on the early voting process. Recognizing the strategic advantage of banking votes before Election Day, Trump’s campaign is now actively promoting early voting to ensure a strong turnout among his base. In contrast, Vice President Kamala Harris and Democrats have consistently championed early voting, viewing it as crucial for expanding voter access. Their efforts to mobilize voters early are well underway as they aim to maintain their historical advantage in early turnout.
As of Sunday, October 27th, WEC data shows that 405,744 absentee ballots have already been cast, a 49% increase compared to 272,039 ballots cast during the same period in 2020. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel acknowledged the increase in its recent coverage. These absentee ballots will all be counted on Election Day.
Meagan Wolfe, the Wisconsin Election Commission Administrator and the state’s chief election official, noted that early in-person absentee voting is happening at a faster pace than in past elections. She added that while the pace could decrease in the coming days, turnout during the first three days has been exceptionally high.
A significant share of this surge comes from Wisconsin’s WOW Counties—Washington, Ozaukee, and Waukesha—which have recorded 86,244 ballots in the first five days, up from 57,679 in 2020. By comparison, Dane County recorded 49,974 ballots and Milwaukee County recorded 58,239, both of which are higher than their 2020 early voting numbers.
Early in-person voting will continue until the end of the two-week period, and with a strong start, Wisconsin appears on track to exceed the 651,422 absentee ballots recorded during the 2020 presidential election.
Important Election Dates:
How to Vote In-Person Absentee?
– Early voting times and locations vary by municipality.
– Visit to find locations, days, and hours near you by entering your address here.
Absentee Voting by Mail
If you prefer to vote by mail, keep these deadlines in mind:
– Request Absentee Ballot: Must be received by 5 PM on Oct. 31.
– Return Ballot by Mail: Must be received by 8 PM on Nov. 5.
– Return Ballot in Person: Must be submitted by 8 PM on Nov. 5 (at your municipal clerk’s office or polling place).
Tips for absentee voting:
– A witness must sign your ballot’s certification envelope.
– To ensure timely return, consider hand-delivering your ballot.
Preview What is on Your Ballot
Your ballot and election information depend on where you live. By entering your street address and city you can:
– See Your Ballot: Review what’s on your ballot ahead of time, including local races and referendums.
– Find Your Local Election Details: See upcoming local election dates and locations.
– Learn About Voting in Person: Get information on voter ID requirements, polling locations, and more.
Non-Citizen Voting Referendum on the Ballot
– Question: “Should the constitution specify that only U.S. citizens age 18 or older can vote in any election, including referendums?”
– Supporters’ View: This change ensures only U.S. citizens can vote, addressing concerns seen in other states where non-citizens have been allowed to vote in local elections.
– Opponents’ View: Non-citizens currently cannot vote, making this amendment unnecessary.
Make your voice heard by voting early! Encourage your friends and family to vote and review the referendum question before Election Day.