Politics
Wisconsin clerks told how to respond if federal agents appear at November polls
The Wisconsin Elections Commission approved guidance directing local clerks to seek legal and election-administration support if federal law enforcement arrives at polling places. The memo says officers generally should not be there unless voting, conducting legitimate law enforcement or responding to a clerk’s request for help.
MADISON, Wis. — Wisconsin election officials have given the state’s more than 1,800 local clerks instructions for responding if federal law enforcement officers appear at polling places during the Nov. 3 general election.
The Wisconsin Elections Commission approved the guidance 5-1. It says officers should not be at polling places unless they are voting, carrying out legitimate law enforcement duties or responding to a clerk’s request for assistance. If officers arrive, clerks are instructed to contact their local legal counsel, county clerk and commission staff.
Commission Administrator Meagan Wolfe said officials do not expect unusual activity on Election Day and want voters to have the same experience as in past elections. Clerks had asked for clear instructions, she said.
Commissioner Ann Jacobs urged any law enforcement officers who come to observe voting to do so in plain clothes, rather than in conspicuous tactical gear. She said heavily equipped officers close to voters would be different from quiet observation.
Republican Commissioner Bob Spindell cast the lone dissenting vote. He said he considered the guidance unnecessary and worried it could discourage people from voting, citing the state’s history without such instructions.
Early voting is scheduled to begin Oct. 20. The general election is Nov. 3.