Wisconsin Senate Bill SJR94

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/19/23
• Refer: 12/19/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Prohibiting ranked-choice voting in Wisconsin elections and prohibiting voting for candidates of more than one political party in primaries for partisan office (first consideration).

Impact

The impact of SJR94 is significant as it would reshape the voting landscape in Wisconsin by limiting the options available to voters during elections. Ranked-choice voting has been advocated for by many reformers who argue that it provides a more democratic process by allowing voters to express preferences beyond just a single candidate. By eliminating this option, SJR94 could lead to less voter engagement and a decrease in the representation of diverse political viewpoints within the state's elections. Additionally, the prohibition on casting votes for multiple parties could further entrench the two-party system in Wisconsin.

Summary

SJR94 is a proposed constitutional amendment that seeks to prohibit ranked-choice voting in Wisconsin elections and restricts the voting process in partisan primaries to candidates from a single political party. The amendment aims to eliminate any voting methods where voters can rank candidates in order of preference or vote for candidates from multiple parties in a primary election. If passed, SJR94 would declare any election utilizing such systems invalid, effectively removing ranked-choice voting from Wisconsin's electoral processes.

Contention

Debate around SJR94 is expected to be contentious, particularly given the ongoing discussions about electoral reform in the United States. Supporters of the amendment argue that ranked-choice voting complicates the electoral process and can lead to confusion among voters. Opponents, however, assert that the bill is an attempt to limit voter choices and undermine democratic practices. Critics are concerned that restricting electoral methods will disenfranchise voters who prefer more diverse options and could marginalize smaller political parties, reducing overall electoral competitiveness.