What to Know about Voting Precincts in Wisconsin

Civic Media Voter Resource: Precincts are where you cast your ballot. Here are some FAQs to learn more about finding your precinct in November

Voting precincts ensure everyone has a convenient location for voting on Election Day. Here is what you need to know about voting precincts in Wisconsin with this easy list of frequently asked questions and answers. Don’t miss your opportunity to cast your ballot!

Q: What is a Voting Precinct in Wisconsin?

A voting precinct is the specific geographic area which determines where you will go to cast your ballot.

Every precinct has its own polling place.

It is meant to ensure everyone has a convenient location for voting on Election Day 

Q: Who Works in Voting Precincts?

Voting precincts are typically staffed by a team of poll workers.

These workers play a crucial role in the election process, including making sure everything runs smoothly at the polls, and everyone gets to cast their ballot.

Q: How are the Poll Workers Picked?

Poll workers are appointed by municipal clerks and are required to complete training in preparation for Election Day duties.

Political parties also have a role in nominating poll workers in Wisconsin. It’s meant to give a balanced representation at each polling place.

Poll workers, may also be called election inspectors, and are typically local residents. You may know your poll worker away from the ballot box as your friend or neighbor.  

Q: What Goes into Planning Before the Election?

1. Recruiting and Training Poll Workers: Ensuring they understand their roles and responsibilities.
2. Setting Up Polling Places: Making sure each location is accessible and equipped with the necessary voting materials.
3. Testing Voting Equipment: Verifying all machines are functioning correctly to hold a fair and accurate vote count.
4. Publicizing Election Information: Informing the community about where and when to vote, and what to bring to the poll

Q: What Happens on Election Day?

1. Opening the Polls: Poll workers set up, make sure everything is ready for the voters, and open the polls on time.
2. Voter Check-In: Voters check in with poll workers, who verify their registration and ID.
3. Casting Ballots: Voters are guided to the voting booths to cast their ballots privately and securely.
4. Assisting Voters: Poll workers assist anyone who needs help, so everyone can be sure their vote counts

Q: What about after the Polls Close?

1. Counting Ballots: Poll workers and election officials count the ballots, ensuring accuracy.
2. Reporting Results: Preliminary results are reported to the municipal clerk and then to county and state officials.
3. Post-Election Audits: Random audits are conducted to ensure the integrity of the election results.

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You are Prepared. Find Your Precinct!

Be prepared to go to the polls! Visit the MyVote Wisconsin website to find your precinct, locate your polling place, get directions, and more.

Please feel free to share this information with anyone who might find it useful — and go here for more Civic Media Voter Resources to help you make sure your voice is heard this November.

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