Wisconsin voters decide a critical state Supreme Court race today, casting ballots that will shape the court’s direction for years. Polls remain open until 8 p.m. statewide, with voters also weighing in on local offices and school funding referendums across the state.

What’s on Your Ballot

Every Wisconsin voter will see the Supreme Court race at the top of their ballot, featuring two current Court of Appeals judges competing for the open seat. The contest represents the only statewide race on today’s ballot. Local races vary by municipality and may include positions for mayor, city council, and school board. Several school districts have placed funding referendums before voters, seeking approval for operational budgets and capital improvements. Voters can preview their specific ballot at myvote.wi.gov before heading to their polling place.

Voting Requirements and Registration

Wisconsin law requires all voters to present valid photo identification at their polling place. Acceptable forms include a Wisconsin driver’s license, state ID card, military ID, passport, or tribal ID card. The federal SAVE Act requiring citizenship proof has not become law, so voters need only their standard photo ID. Those who need to register or update their registration can do so at the polls by bringing proof of residence showing their current address. Acceptable documents include a lease, utility bill, or bank statement, which can be shown electronically on a phone. Voters must have lived at their current address for at least 28 days by April 7 to register from that location.

Absentee Ballots and Results Timing

Voters who still have unreturned absentee ballots face a deadline. Mailing ballots at this point is too late. Local clerks must receive all absentee ballots by 8 p.m. for them to count. Voters should check their clerk’s website for specific return instructions, as some communities maintain drop boxes that may close before 8 p.m. Milwaukee’s drop boxes close at 6 p.m. today. Results could come quickly, as the two most recent Supreme Court races were called within an hour of polls closing. Both elections elected liberal justices by double-digit margins. Local races and referendums may take longer to call due to typically closer margins.

What Comes Next

Wisconsin faces two more elections in 2026 following today’s spring vote. Voters can find their assigned polling place by entering their address at myvote.wi.gov, which also provides sample ballots and registration information. The Milwaukee area features numerous contested local races, including a restructured Wauwatosa city council that moves from 16 alderpersons representing eight districts to 12 alderpersons representing 12 new districts. Anyone in line by 8 p.m. tonight will be allowed to vote, regardless of how long the line extends.