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Wisconsin Voters Approve Bans on Private Election Funding and Non-Official Staff

The measures, seen as a victory for Republicans, aim to prevent private influence in election administration.

Wisconsin State Senator Eric Wimberger, republican from Green Bay, from district 30, listens while other senators debate during the senate session on Wednesday, June 14, 2023 in Madison. One of the main items on the agenda today was the local government funding bill.
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A handful of poll workers stand ready to assist voters with curbside voting on April 7, 2020. Some clerks used private grant money to help facilitate curbside voting or drop boxes for absentee ballots.

Overview

  • Wisconsin voters passed two constitutional amendments prohibiting private funding for elections and requiring only legally designated officials to administer elections.
  • The initiatives were driven by concerns over 'Zuckbucks,' a term for private grants from Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, which critics argue unfairly influenced previous elections.
  • Despite opposition, the measures garnered support through grassroots efforts and substantial campaign efforts by various conservative groups.
  • Experts warn that the bans could strain local election offices already struggling with funding, potentially affecting election security and voter access.
  • The bans are part of a broader national trend, with 27 states having passed similar laws, reflecting growing mistrust in private funding's role in elections.