Wisconsin Election Commission refuses to clear ineligible voters from rolls

Wisconsin's voter rolls include over 4 million inactive names, raising concerns about election security. Senator Ron Johnson has criticized the Wisconsin Elections Commission for not removing these ineligible names, arguing that it creates opportunities for potential fraud. The commission, however, defends its decision, stating that retaining these records is essential for maintaining historical data and preventing fraud. They emphasize that removing ineligible names would eliminate important metadata regarding voter history. The issue gained attention following a scandal in Milwaukee County, where a former election official was convicted for using fake names to obtain absentee ballots. This incident highlighted vulnerabilities in the election system, prompting lawmakers to push for a cleanup of the voter rolls. Despite these calls, the commission maintains that their practices ensure proper recordkeeping and do not facilitate election fraud. State courts have previously sided with the commission, asserting that the removal of ineligible names is at their discretion. This ongoing conflict between lawmakers and the commission reflects broader debates about election integrity and the management of voter information. Critics argue that the presence of fictitious names on the rolls undermines public confidence in the electoral process. As the presidential race approaches, the debate over voter roll management continues, with advocates for reform urging the commission to take action. The situation underscores the complexities of balancing voter access, historical recordkeeping, and the need for secure elections in Wisconsin.