The voting process can often be confusing and overwhelming, but it doesn’t need to be. The August primary election is fast approaching and understanding how to prepare is extremely important. Here’s what you need to know 🗳️
Cast Your Vote on Election Day
If you're already registered to vote, simply head to your polling place between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. Remember to bring a photo ID. For details on your specific polling location and ballot, check out MyVote WI.
If you’re not registered to vote yet, you can do so on Election Day. Just be sure to bring proof of residency. Alternatively, you can register in advance at various in-person absentee voting locations or the City Clerk’s office until Aug. 9.
Can’t Make It to Election Day?
No worries! You can vote beforehand. If you're registered to vote, you can use an absentee ballot. You can return your completed ballot by mail, drop it off at an absentee ballot box, or deliver it in person to the City Clerk’s office. You can also vote early at one of the city’s many in-person absentee voting locations starting July 30.
If you are not registered to vote, you can register in person at your municipal clerk’s office until Aug. 11. Registering through the mail or online is closed.
What Can I Expect on My Ballot?
Constitutional Amendments: Two proposed amendments to the state Constitution aim to enhance legislative control over state finances and the management of federal funds. Put simply, voting “yes” would create a new constitutional amendment giving the Legislature more power when it comes to allocating federal funds in the state. Voting “no” would oppose the amendment and allow the governor to maintain the power to allocate federal funds without legislative approval.
Statewide Congressional Races: The ballot for the Republican senatorial ticket features three candidates: Eric Hovde, Charles Barman, and Rejani Raveenderan. Tammy Baldwin, the incumbent, is running unopposed in the Democratic primary. In the general election this November, voters will choose which candidate will join Republican Sen. Ron Johnson in representing Wisconsin in the Senate.
Democrat Mark Pocan is running unopposed for reelection in the primary election for the U.S. House to represent Wisconsin’s 2nd Congressional District. On the Republican side, attorney Erik Olsen and local organizer Charity Barry are competing for a spot on the November Ticket.
County Executive Race: Four candidates are vying for the position of Dane County Executive in the upcoming election. Dana Pellebon, Wes Sparkman, Melissa Agard, and Regina Vidaver, recently participated in a forum to share their platforms. The top two from the primary will advance to the general election in November.
State Senate and Assembly Races: These races will look at those in the Assembly and Senate after districts were redrawn in December 2023. Depending on where you live, some primaries will be more lively than others.
Local Races: There will be four local races on the ballot, all of which are currently uncontested. These positions include Dane County district attorney, Dane County treasurer, Dane County register of deeds, and the Dane County clerk.
