Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB35

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/17/25
• Refer: 2/17/25
• Report Pass: 5/7/25
• Refer: 5/7/25
• Refer: 6/20/25
• Engrossed: 6/24/25
• Refer: 6/27/25

Caption

Withdrawal of candidacy for certain offices filled at the general election and providing a penalty. (FE)

Impact

The bill significantly alters the way candidacies can be withdrawn, essentially establishing a formal process that was previously not enforced under current law, which primarily required candidates to remain committed unless faced with death. By introducing fees for withdrawal, AB35 aims to deter last-minute withdrawals, thus ensuring that ballots are finalized in time and maintaining a smoother election process. The bill also expands the range of offices covered by this regulation, extending to various levels of state and national offices, except for district attorney.

Summary

Assembly Bill 35 introduces new regulations relating to the withdrawal of candidacies for certain offices filled at the general election in Wisconsin. Under this bill, candidates who file nomination papers with the Elections Commission may withdraw their candidacy but must file a sworn statement and pay a withdrawal fee. Specifically, candidates for national or statewide offices are required to pay a fee of $1,000, while those for other offices must pay $250. This change aims to formalize and regulate the process of candidacy withdrawal in an effort to uphold the integrity of elections.

Conclusion

The discussions surrounding AB35 reflect broader concerns about electoral fairness and candidate accountability. While proponents argue that such measures will preserve election integrity by preventing frivolous or malicious withdrawals, detractors may view the fees and penalties as barriers that could discourage honest candidacies. The impact of this bill could reshape electoral dynamics in Wisconsin, emphasizing the importance of firm regulations within the democratic process.

Contention

One notable aspect of this bill is its introduction of criminal penalties for intentionally filing false statements related to candidacy withdrawals. Such actions are classified as a Class G felony, carrying penalties of substantial fines or imprisonment. This provision could provoke debate about the balance between enforcing election integrity and the potential for overreach in penalizing individuals who may genuinely seek to withdraw for legitimate reasons. Critics may argue that the penalties are too severe and could deter individuals from entering the political arena.