Debunking 13 Voting Myths Ahead of Wisconsin’s April 2025 Elections
As Wisconsin gears up for a high-stakes local election on April 2, 2025, misinformation about voting laws and procedures is spreading rapidly. From viral posts on social media to hearsay at community events, myths about registration deadlines, ballot counting, and polling place behavior are sowing confusion and mistrust.
To help voters separate fact from fiction, we’ve fact-checked 13 of the most common Wisconsin voting myths using data from the Wisconsin Elections Commission and local media outlets.
✅ MYTH #1: Mail-in ballots are only counted if the race is close
FALSE. All valid absentee and mail-in ballots are counted—regardless of whether a race is close or a landslide. They are processed and tallied alongside in-person votes on Election Day.
✅ MYTH #2: You can’t wear political apparel to the polls
FALSE. Voters can wear clothing or buttons supporting a candidate or cause. You just can’t actively campaign or try to influence other voters within 100 feet of the polling place.
✅ MYTH #3: You need to bring a voter registration card to vote
FALSE. Wisconsin does not issue voter registration cards. What you do need is a valid photo ID such as a driver’s license, passport, or military ID.
✅ MYTH #4: Felons can never vote in Wisconsin
FALSE. Individuals can vote once they have fully served their sentence, including probation or parole. They must re-register.
✅ MYTH #5: You can’t register to vote on Election Day
FALSE. Wisconsin allows same-day registration. Just bring proof of residence (like a utility bill or lease) and a valid photo ID.
✅ MYTH #6: Early voting means your vote is more likely to be tampered with
FALSE. Early votes are securely stored and processed with bipartisan oversight. There is no evidence of systematic tampering.
✅ MYTH #7: Poll workers can ask about your political affiliation
FALSE. Poll workers are not allowed to ask or record your political party at any point in the voting process.
✅ MYTH #8: Ballot drop boxes are illegal in 2025
PARTIALLY TRUE. Following a 2022 court ruling, most ballot drop boxes are banned except those located inside clerks' offices.
✅ MYTH #9: College students must vote in their home district
FALSE. Students can vote in the district where they currently live, as long as they register with proper ID and proof of residence.
✅ MYTH #10: If you make a mistake on your ballot, you can’t fix it
FALSE. Voters can request a new ballot if a mistake is made. Don’t be afraid to ask poll workers for help.
✅ MYTH #11: Absentee ballots are discarded if not received by Election Day
TRUE. Wisconsin requires absentee ballots to be received—not just postmarked—by 8 p.m. on Election Day to be counted.
✅ MYTH #12: Employers must give time off to vote
TRUE, WITH CONDITIONS. Wisconsin law allows up to three hours of unpaid time off to vote, as long as you request it in advance.
✅ MYTH #13: You can use your phone in the voting booth
MIXED. Phones can be brought in for reference, but photos or videos are prohibited. Don’t take selfies with your ballot.
Final Thoughts
Disinformation thrives on uncertainty, but voting is a clear and structured process in Wisconsin. If you're ever unsure, check with the Wisconsin Elections Commission or your local clerk’s office.
In an age of partisan division and digital misinformation, sharing verified information is a form of civic duty. Use your voice—and your vote—responsibly.