Wisconsin Court Reinstates Absentee Ballot Drop Boxes

The Wisconsin Supreme Court, now with a liberal majority, has overturned a 2022 ruling that restricted the use of absentee ballot drop boxes to election clerks' offices. The court's 4-3 decision allows ballot drop boxes to be placed in various locations as determined by municipal clerks, arguing that this does not contradict state law. Justice Ann Walsh Bradley, writing for the majority, emphasized that the discretion of local clerks in administering elections includes the use of drop boxes. This decision, reversing a ban implemented by a conservative majority, has been praised by Democrats for increasing voter accessibility but criticized by Republicans who argue it undermines election integrity. The ruling could significantly impact the upcoming presidential elections in this key swing state. The move follows the election of liberal Justice Janet Protasiewicz, which shifted the court's balance.