MILWAUKEE — Early voting in the Wisconsin spring election is surging, according to Wisconsin Elections Commission data.

What You Need To Know

  • Wisconsin Elections Commission data shows a surge in early voting for the upcoming spring election compared to the 2023

  • So far, over 193,000 ballots have been returned across the state. This time two years ago, that number was less than 32,000

  • In Milwaukee County, the latest WEC numbers are up by more than 20,000 votes compared to 2023's numbers

  • The last day to vote early is Saturday, March 29

As of Friday, March 21, over 193,000 ballots have been returned across the state. This time two years ago, the number of ballots returned in that election was less than 32,000.

Milwaukee County is also seeing a major surge in early voter turnout.

The Wisconsin Elections Commission numbers on Friday show early voting in the county was up by more than 20,000 votes compared to 2023’s numbers.

Milwaukee County Election Commission Director Michelle Hawley said interest in the two statewide races may be part of the reason.

“I think we would expect to see high numbers in a state where we have a contested Supreme Court race. We have a contest for the Department of Public Instruction, and people are paying attention,” said Hawley.

Milwaukee early voter Mary Avery said that’s what brought her to the polls.

“Our judicial system has become politicized. And 20 years ago, I might not have felt quite so compelled to go vote in a Supreme Court election,” said Avery.

She said she also likes the convenience of early voting. She’s not the only one.

“I work Monday through Friday, so I don’t really have a chance to get out early and come vote. So, I saw it was open, went in and stopped,” said voter Lucas Sorensen.

Poll workers said the first few days of early voting have been very busy.

Hawley also points to the referendums on the ballot as another possible reason for the high turnout in early voting.

“Local elections are really important in your local community because, of course, they can determine what you’re paying for your taxes,” said Hawley.

Some voters stressed the importance of this election as a reason they voted early.

“I think it’s imperative that we come out and share and vote, and make our names and voices known,” said Milwaukee early voter Anthony Martin.

Other voters say they’re more inclined to vote this time around to protect certain rights.

“To make sure that I have a say in what my state votes, and the way the judicial system in my state works,” said Sorensen.

Early voting in-person and by mail wraps up on Saturday, March 29. To find your polling place, visit My Vote Wisconsin.

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