Overview

• Two amendments passed in Wisconsin restrict the use of private grants for election administration and specify that only officials designated by law can conduct election tasks.
• The amendments stem from Republican scrutiny over 'Zuckerbucks,' grants funded by Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg to assist clerks during the pandemic.
• Critics worry the vague language of the amendments could lead to lawsuits and complicate election administration, particularly regarding who is considered an election official.
• Milwaukee has already received grants for voting equipment which will be spent before the amendments take effect, raising questions about future funding for election needs.
• Voting rights advocates express concern that the amendments could subvert elections by limiting the roles of non-officials crucial to ensuring smooth elections.