Wisconsin Supreme Court to Revisit Absentee Ballot Drop Box Ruling

The Wisconsin Supreme Court is set to hear a case challenging the legality of absentee ballot drop boxes. The case, brought by Democrats, seeks to overturn a previous ruling that restricted the use of these boxes. The court’s decision, expected within six months of the November presidential election, could impact the outcome of the closely contested race.

The issue stems from a 2022 ruling that stated absentee ballots could only be returned to election clerk offices, effectively banning drop boxes. This ruling has been contested by Democrats and some Republicans who argue for the security of drop boxes. They contend that the court misinterpreted the law and that clerks should have the autonomy to decide how and where to accept absentee ballots.

The case has drawn attention from various groups, including Priorities USA and the Wisconsin Alliance for Retired Voters, who have requested the court to reconsider the 2022 ruling. They argue that the controversy around drop boxes arose only when they were used as a political tool to cast doubt on election results.

Election officials from four counties have also filed a brief supporting the overturning of the ruling, citing the long-standing use of drop boxes as a secure method for voters to return their ballots. They highlighted that in 2022, when drop boxes were not in use, over 1,600 absentee ballots arrived late and were not counted. In contrast, in 2020, when drop boxes were widely used, only 689 ballots arrived late.

The case comes at a time when absentee voting has gained popularity, with over 40% of Wisconsin voters casting mail ballots in 2020, a record high. The outcome of this case could significantly impact the 2024 elections.