My Northern Wisconsin

Covering Ashland, Iron, Lincoln, Oneida, Price, Rusk, Sawyer, Taylor, and Vilas Counties


QUESTION ON BALLOT: SHOULD PRIVATE FUNDS BE USED TO ADMINISTER ELECTIONS?


Voters in both Price and Lincoln Counties will see an advisory referendum question on the November 8, 2022 ballot.

   

The question, "Should the State of Wisconsin prohibit election officials from soliciting or using private funds, technology or services from special interest groups, people, or other private entities for the purpose of administering elections and referendums?," was brought up due to the 2020 Presidential Election.

During that election, The Center for Tech and Civic Life gave over ten million dollars to cities across Wisconsin, with the five largest cities receiving the bulk of the funds.  This became the focus of many lawsuits.

Republicans in the state felt private grant money should not be used to help run elections, realizing that influence could occur.  A bill was passed in Wisconsin making the practice illegal, but Governor Tony Evers vetoed it.  In June 2022, a judge decided it was legal to use such funds.

However, this advisory referendum now appears on the ballot in the upcoming election to let lawmakers know how voters feel.  Votes are for advisement only and no direct legislative action will result from the vote.

   
SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES - SHOP PRICE COUNTY FIRST:  Forward Bank is a depositor-owned organization driven to move our communities forward.  By offering free checking, great rates on loans & deposits, business services, leading edge digital services, and a Charitable Money Market Account, Forward Bank keeps our communities strong.  For more information, visit Forward Bank's website.
(This post was last modified: 10-23-2022, 05:29 PM by My Northern Wisconsin.)