The Wisconsin Supreme Court garnered widespread attention a couple of years ago when it issued a ruling stating that state law does not allow for the utilization of ballot drop boxes beyond election offices.
This decision was met with approval from the GOP; however, conservatives are now expressing intense displeasure at the potential reversal of this ruling.
Recent developments have seen a shift in the composition of the justices on the court, with a majority now leaning towards the Democrat side.
The Washington Examiner reported that oral arguments were presented to Wisconsin’s highest judicial body on Monday regarding this contentious issue.
The case under consideration by the Wisconsin Supreme Court pertains to whether Wisconsin clerks should be permitted to reintroduce absentee ballot drop boxes, following a prior ruling against their use.
The Examiner highlighted that while Republicans held a four to three majority on the state Supreme Court in 2022, control shifted to Democrats after Justice Janet Protasiewicz was elected last year.
Justice Jill Karofsky, known for her liberal views, expressed her support for overturning the 2022 ruling. In quoting her, the Examiner noted her query: “What if we just got it wrong? What if we made a mistake? Are we now supposed to just perpetuate that mistake into the future?”
Conversely, conservative Justice Rebecca Bradley raised concerns about the court potentially overstepping its designated role.
She argued against granting municipal clerks unrestrained authority in conducting elections contrary to statutory provisions.
Bradley cautioned that such actions could pose a significant threat to democracy by circumventing legislative intent.
A lawsuit challenging the restriction on ballot drop boxes was initiated by Priorities USA, a pro-Democrat group working in collaboration with Common Cause Wisconsin.
Jay Heck, Executive Director of Common Cause Wisconsin, asserted that ballot drop boxes play a positive role in enhancing voter participation by offering greater accessibility and convenience.
Heck emphasized that these facilities facilitate voting and debunked claims made by election skeptics and conspiracy theorists alleging misuse of drop boxes for malicious purposes.
Brian Schimming, Chairman of the Wisconsin GOP, voiced apprehensions about potential malfeasance associated with allowing ballot drop boxes.
He warned against possible misconduct and irregularities in this year’s election if there is a reversal by the Wisconsin Supreme Court on this matter.
Schimming criticized what he perceives as unnecessary alterations in state laws leading to confusion and disorder within electoral processes.
He expressed concerns about shifting legal frameworks causing uncertainty among voters and creating chaos during elections.
