The 3 biggest mistakes that Wisconsin voters make – and how to avoid them

As both primary and general elections quickly approach, many Wisconsin voters may find themselves confused or overwhelmed by the voting process. At Up North News, we’re here to provide guidance on how to cast your ballot and make your voice heard during this election cycle, highlighting three mistakes that Wisconsin voters often make – and how you can avoid them.

1) Not researching the ballot beforehand

It’s important to know what’s at stake in this election, and which candidates have your best interests at heart. Without familiarizing yourself with the names on your ballot, you may mistakenly vote for a candidate you don’t support. The easiest way to learn more about the races in your area is by visiting VOTE411, where you can enter your address and get a full rundown of the candidates and their stances on community issues. Don’t leave the majority of your ballot blank – get acquainted with who’s running and what they believe in, so you can make the best choices for your community.

2) Not taking advantage of voting absentee

If you’re unable to make it to your polling place on election day, that shouldn’t stop you from casting your ballot. Voting absentee is easy, as long as you meet the required deadlines. For the primary election, you must request your absentee ballot by Thurs., Aug. 8 and return it by 5 p.m. on Tues., Aug. 13. For the general election, you must request your ballot by Thurs., Oct. 31 and return it by 5 p.m. on Tues., Nov. 5. You can register to receive your absentee ballot by mail at the MyVote Wisconsin website.

3) Not voting, as a college student

College students who attend schools away from home may have questions about their ability to vote, specifically about whether they’re eligible to vote in the city where they attend school. State statutes require that an individual must reside in their voting precinct for at least 28 consecutive days in order to vote in that ward – meaning that most college students will be able to register and vote from their campus address for November’s general election. Students who have already registered to vote at their home address are eligible to re-register for their campus address, as well as vote absentee for their home address. Students can register to vote with valid ID at the MyVote Wisconsin website, or at the polls on election day. They can also find their polling location by entering their campus address on the MyVote portal.

Are you ready to vote? Make sure to check your voter registration status, see who’s on your ballot, and make a voting plan here.