COVID-19 cases in Wisconsin are spiking again, renewing concerns about voter access with Election Day looming.
One group in the western half of the state says part of its focus is on potential voters who may otherwise be overlooked. Karen Voss, co-coordinator of the nonpartisan volunteer group Chippewa Valley Votes, said demand is still strong for absentee ballots, and they’re educating local residents about the process, including how to register. They’re also working with local authorities on a process for ensuring that people being held in a county jail can participate in the election. “We have in our jail system individuals in the care of our jails who either are registered voters and still have the right to vote,” said Voss, “and yet, are not finding it easy.” Specifically, the group is working with the Eau Claire County Jail to make it easier for people behind bars to vote absentee if they wish. In Wisconsin, people serving misdemeanor sentences or awaiting trial are eligible to vote.
In a recent report, the American Civil Liberties Union of Wisconsin found more than half of the responding county jails had no written policies for helping folks who are incarcerated cast their ballots. Voss said there’s also concern about reaching voters who are experiencing homelessness. She said even if they don’t have a permanent home address, the state still needs proof of residence to allow them to register.
“They need the assistance of a letter that identifies their location for living from a social services organization,” said Voss. That temporary location could be a homeless shelter. But with more people facing homelessness because of the pandemic and economic crisis, it’s unclear whether enough people know about this requirement. More information on obtaining this type of letter can be found on the Wisconsin Election Commissions website.
