With less than three weeks remaining until the November election, Wisconsin has emerged as a crucial battleground state in both the presidential race and the U.S. Senate contest. However, voters in the Badger State now face limited choices when it comes to casting their absentee ballots.
Counties, cities, and towns in the state have significantly reduced the number of absentee drop boxes. Since the 2020 presidential election, the number of drop boxes has decreased by over 80%, with at least 500 available back then. Currently, there are only 78 drop boxes in 42 communities or municipalities.
In Wisconsin, there are a total of 14 ballot drop boxes each in the major cities of Milwaukee and Madison, both of which have a Democratic voter advantage.
However, it is worth noting that numerous towns and small rural communities across the state have reported only having one drop box, while dozens of others have none at all.
Interestingly, a significant portion of these communities lacking ballot drop boxes are located in conservative areas. This information was discovered by a voter advocacy group in Wisconsin.
Joe Biden narrowly defeated Donald Trump in Wisconsin during the 2020 election, winning by a margin of less than one percentage point. Some Republicans argue that drop boxes pose a risk to election security and could potentially lead to voter fraud.
Conservatives emerged victorious in a court battle in 2022, which questioned the utilization of unstaffed drop boxes in public locations.
However, the Wisconsin Supreme Court subsequently reversed this ruling, thereby granting local governments the authority to determine whether or not to employ such drop boxes.
The number of ballot drop boxes in the swing state of Wisconsin has been reduced by 80%, according to reports. This development is concerning as it may limit the accessibility and convenience of voting for many residents.
The reduction in drop boxes could potentially lead to longer lines at polling stations and create additional barriers for individuals who rely on drop boxes for their voting needs.
It is important to ensure that all eligible voters have fair and equal access to the voting process, regardless of their location or circumstances.