The Wisconsin Supreme Court recently made a significant ruling regarding the use of ballot drop boxes in the upcoming fall elections. The court overturned its previous decision from 2022, which restricted the placement of drop boxes to only local election clerks’ offices and limited who could return a ballot in person.
Following a change in the court's composition to liberal control, a progressive voter mobilization group requested a review of the drop box restrictions. The court's decision to allow drop boxes in any location could have a substantial impact on the upcoming presidential race in Wisconsin, a crucial swing state.
Justice Ann Walsh Bradley, writing for the majority, emphasized that using drop boxes set up by local election clerks is equivalent to submitting a ballot directly to the clerk, regardless of the box's location. The ruling affirms the discretion of local clerks in administering elections, including the use and placement of drop boxes.
The decision was met with dissent from the conservative justices, who accused the liberals of pursuing a political agenda and disregarding previous legal precedent. Despite objections from some quarters, the court's decision stands, allowing for the expanded use of drop boxes in Wisconsin.
The popularity of absentee voting, particularly through drop boxes, surged during the 2020 pandemic election, with no evidence of widespread fraud associated with their use. Advocates of drop boxes argue that they enhance convenience, accessibility, and participation in the electoral process.
While some Republicans expressed disappointment with the court's ruling, proponents of drop boxes, such as Dane County Clerk Scott McDonell, hailed it as a step towards promoting civic engagement and ensuring timely ballot submission.
As Wisconsin gears up for the 2024 elections, the availability of drop boxes is expected to facilitate voter turnout and streamline the voting process, particularly benefiting rural and disabled voters.
