New Rule for Election Observers in Wisconsin is Awaiting Action by Lawmakers

Wednesday, February 12th, 2025 -- 2:00 PM

(Wisconsin Radio Network) A new rule for election observers in Wisconsin is awaiting action by lawmakers.

According to the Wisconsin Radio Network, the Wisconsin Elections Commission has drafted 12 pages of what observers may and may not do at polling places.

Commission chair Ann Jacobs told the Assembly Elections Committee that there’s not a lot WEC can do if poll workers or voters have complaints regarding observers.

But Republican legislative staffer and former state Representative Janel Brandtjen argued that the 60 day process to investigate complaints will take too long.

Commissioner Don Millis, a Republican, told the Assembly Elections Committee that current state law is too vague, and could allow Republican observers to feel intimidated.

Republican state Representative Paul Tittl of Manitowoc said the rule lacks any punishment for violations. Millis said WEC lacks authority to propose consequences, that’s up to lawmakers.

Tittl drafted a bill doing that last session, but it was vetoed by Democratic Governor Tony Evers. The Committee can request changes to the rule or forward it to the Joint Committee for Review of Administrative Rules.

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