Wisconsin Assembly Bill AR18

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 11/2/23
• Refer: 11/2/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

The impeachment of Meagan Wolfe, the Administrator of the Wisconsin Elections Commission, citing allegations of maladministration in office and potential violations of election laws.

Impact

The passage of AR18 could significantly affect the regulatory landscape of election administration in Wisconsin. If enacted, AR18 may lead to a restructuring of the Wisconsin Elections Commission or its personnel. The allegations against Wolfe and the actions detailed in the bill reflect broader concerns regarding the potential for election fraud, particularly with absentee voting. This could lead to changes in how elections are conducted, increased oversight measures, and potentially heightened scrutiny of election officials and processes.

Summary

AR18 concerns the impeachment of Meagan Wolfe, the Administrator of the Wisconsin Elections Commission, based on allegations of maladministration in her office. It specifically cites her conduct during the 2020 presidential election in Wisconsin, where it was alleged that she facilitated illegal absentee voting practices. These practices include the improper use of ballot drop boxes and facilitating absentee voting in long-term care facilities without the legally required oversight of Special Voting Deputies (SVDs), which are intended to ensure fraud prevention and voter competency verification.

Contention

The bill has sparked significant contention among both supporters and opponents. Proponents argue that the impeachment is necessary to restore integrity and trust in Wisconsin's election system, citing past election irregularities as justification. Conversely, opponents view the impeachment as a politically motivated attack on a public official who was enforcing regulations and facilitating voting during a challenging period amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The discussions surrounding AR18 are reflective of the larger national debate on election integrity vs. access, particularly in the context of absentee and early voting strategies.