(To listen to my Assembly floor speech, click here).
Happy Wednesday! We have officially made it through our first floor period (1/14).
Yesterday, the Assembly voted and passed AJR 1/SJR 2. To simplify, this is a constitutional amendment that would amend the State Constitution to require valid photographic identification when voting. In order for a constitutional amendment to be put on the ballot, it has to pass both chambers in two successive sessions, which it now has.
To clarify, the requirement to show photo ID to vote in an election is already state law. All this amendment aims to do is enshrine this basic election integrity law in Wisconsin’s Constitution.
One of the arguments against Voter ID is that it will make it harder for some people to vote. In truth, since Voter ID has been implemented, Wisconsin has seen record turnout at the polls, with almost 73% of Wisconsinites voting in the 2024 presidential election. Additionally, the DOT provides free Voter IDs (see here).
As important as it is that the voting process be as simple as possible for all Wisconsinites, it is also our responsibility to preserve the integrity of our election system and ensure that citizens are confident that the ballots cast are legitimate.
I feel confident that this amendment will be well received, as recent polls show that 74% of registered voters in Wisconsin support requiring a photo ID to vote (Marquette Law School poll), and so do nearly 81% of all Americans (Pew Research Center poll).
Now that it has passed, Wisconsin voters will be asked the following question on the April 2025 ballot: “Shall section 1m of article III of the constitution be created to require that voters present valid photographic identification verifying their identity in order to vote in any election, subject to exceptions which may be established by law?”
This will only be added to the Constitution if it passes in April.
I voted for the resolution to put this question on your spring ballot. Now the choice falls to you.
In-District Events
Saturday, January 18th, will be the Mishicot FFA Alumni and Supporters Annual Banquet and Live Auction at K-City Pub and Grill (1233 Main St, Kellnersville). The social will begin at 5 p.m. and dinner at 6 p.m.
Friday, January 31st, there will be a chili sale during the Mishicot Boys Basketball game against Hilbert from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Mishicot High School.
Saturday, February 8th, will be a chili event in the cafeteria of St. Ignatius Catholic School (220 Doty St., Kaukauna) from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.
