Walker Reversal on Same Day Registration Does Not Go Far Enough

Milwaukee: According to press reports today Governor Walker has reversed himself on repealing same day registration, stating he would not sign a bill that cost as much money as the Government Accountability Board has estimated.  However, advocates for voting rights are concerned that Walker’s position does not go far enough.

“I am very concerned that Governor Walker’s statement leaves wiggle room to back a repeal of same day registration if the cost of the measure can somehow be reduced,” said Anita Johnson, an Organizer for Citizen Action of Wisconsin who specializes in protecting the right to vote.  “The real reason for maintaining same day registration is not cost but guaranteeing the fundamental right to vote.”

“I am very pleased by Governor Walker’s statement that he would not sign a bill to eliminate same day registration in Wisconsin” said Mike Wilder, Director of the African American Civic Engagement Roundtable and member of the staff of Citizen Action of Wisconsin. “However, the Governor’s reasoning for not signing the bill is disappointing. It’s important that the Governor understand that the most egregious part of the plan to eliminate same day registration is not the cost in dollars, but the cost to democracy.”

Same day registration allows voters to update or correct their voter registration information at their polling site on Election Day. It also ensures that recent moves or name changes do not impact a voter’s ability to participate. This kind of flexibility makes it easier to participate in the democratic process that we all value so dearly.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.