What is Wisconsin voting for today is the top question across the state as voters head to the polls this Tuesday, November 4, 2025. While this isn’t a presidential or governor’s election year, Wisconsin’s statewide general election still carries major local and state implications.
Today’s ballot includes city and county leadership races, school funding referendums, and two proposed constitutional amendments that could reshape how elections are run in Wisconsin. Polls opened at 7 a.m. and will close at 8 p.m., with early and absentee ballots already being processed in many counties.
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Statewide Overview: What’s on Wisconsin’s Ballot in 2025
This year’s election focuses heavily on local control, education, and government transparency. Across the state, voters are deciding on:
- Mayoral races in Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, and Kenosha.
- Judicial elections for Circuit and Appeals Court judges.
- Over 60 school district referendums seeking approval for building projects and staff funding.
- Two constitutional amendments addressing how elections are administered and funded.
- Local advisory questions on abortion rights, marijuana legalization, and property tax policies.
While these issues vary by region, together they highlight the changing priorities of Wisconsin voters — from community safety to education funding and individual rights.
The Two Big Statewide Ballot Questions
This year’s statewide referendums are at the heart of Wisconsin’s political conversation.
- Election Administration Amendment
This amendment would require that only elected officials — not appointed boards or administrators — oversee elections in Wisconsin.- Supporters argue it adds transparency and accountability.
- Opponents say it could politicize election management and disrupt the nonpartisan Wisconsin Elections Commission.
- State Resources Amendment
This measure would restrict how public funds and outside grants can be used for election purposes.- Proponents believe it prevents outside influence on Wisconsin elections.
- Critics worry it could limit local governments’ ability to run safe, secure elections, especially in small communities.
These two questions directly address Wisconsin’s ongoing debate over voting integrity and local control, issues that have shaped statewide politics since 2020.
Major City Races: Local Leadership on the Line
Milwaukee
In Wisconsin’s largest city, incumbent Mayor Cavalier Johnson faces challenger David King, a conservative businessman and community advocate.
Johnson’s campaign focuses on public safety and economic revitalization, while King emphasizes tax reform and law enforcement accountability. Milwaukee voters are also choosing several city council members who will help guide future development projects.
Madison
In the state capital, Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway is seeking re-election against former council member Patrick Miles. The race centers on affordable housing, transportation, and climate sustainability. Madison voters will also decide on a city referendum to expand funding for electric bus routes.
Green Bay
Green Bay voters are electing a new mayor after Eric Genrich decided not to run again. Candidates Chad Weininger and Laura McCoy are competing in a tight race focused on small business growth, election transparency, and public infrastructure.
Kenosha and Racine
Kenosha residents are voting for city council seats as debates continue about public safety and downtown redevelopment. In Racine, a major school bond issue worth $120 million is on the ballot to rebuild several older facilities.
School Funding: The Central Issue for Many Voters
Education funding is a driving force in this year’s election. Wisconsin voters are deciding dozens of school district referendums that could shape local education for years.
Some of the largest school-related votes include:
- Madison Metropolitan School District: $200 million for high school modernization.
- Appleton Area School District: $150 million to build a new middle school.
- Eau Claire Area School District: $95 million for renovations and safety upgrades.
- Waukesha School District: $55 million to boost teacher pay and classroom technology.
Supporters say these investments are critical to keeping Wisconsin schools competitive and well-staffed. Critics caution that higher property taxes could burden homeowners already facing inflation and rising costs.
Social Issues Shaping Voter Turnout
Several social issues are also driving voter engagement today.
- Abortion Access: Counties including Dane, La Crosse, and Milwaukee are holding advisory referendums asking whether abortion should remain legal under Wisconsin law.
- Marijuana Legalization: Brown and Rock counties are polling residents on whether recreational marijuana should be legalized and taxed.
- Public Safety Funding: Rural counties are voting on whether to increase local sales taxes to fund sheriff’s departments and EMS services.
These local measures reflect Wisconsin’s deep political diversity — from progressive university towns to conservative rural communities — and preview the issues that may dominate the 2026 midterm elections.
Judicial and County-Level Contests
Beyond mayors and referendums, Wisconsin’s 2025 ballot includes dozens of judicial races. Circuit Court judges are being elected in Dane, Milwaukee, Outagamie, and Marathon counties, with many incumbents facing challengers for the first time in years.
Several county boards and treasurer positions are also on the ballot, along with sheriff races in smaller communities where public safety and budget priorities remain key voter concerns.
Voting Process and Turnout
Wisconsin’s election system allows for same-day voter registration at polling places. To cast a ballot, voters must bring a valid photo ID such as a Wisconsin driver’s license, passport, or military ID.
The Wisconsin Elections Commission (WEC) reports that more than 3.2 million registered voters are eligible to vote today. Early voting numbers are strong — over 410,000 absentee and in-person early ballots were received before polls opened, setting a new record for an off-year election.
Early morning reports indicate steady turnout statewide, with lines forming in urban areas like Milwaukee and Madison. Election officials say voting has been smooth and secure, with no major technical issues reported as of midday.
When to Expect Election Results
Polls close at 8:00 p.m. Central Time, and most counties expect to release preliminary results by 10:30 p.m. Final certification will take place later this week after canvassing and recount procedures, if required.
Results for larger referendums or tight local races may take longer to confirm, especially in counties processing high volumes of absentee ballots.
Why This Election Matters
Even though 2025 isn’t a presidential or congressional year, this election matters deeply for Wisconsin’s future. The outcome of today’s votes will:
- Shape how elections are administered in 2026 and beyond.
- Influence the direction of public education funding.
- Set precedents for local policymaking on reproductive rights, marijuana, and taxation.
- Test political enthusiasm ahead of major races next year.
Political analysts view this election as a temperature check for Wisconsin’s electorate — a preview of how voters might behave in the upcoming 2026 gubernatorial and U.S. Senate contests.
From mayors to school funding and constitutional changes, Wisconsin voters are making decisions that will define their communities for years to come. What issues matter most to you in today’s election? Share your thoughts below and stay informed as results unfold.