Absentee ballots shouldn’t need witness signature

We saw what happened in the last election in Wisconsin. People potentially putting their lives at risk in order to cast a ballot. A majority of voters for the first time opted to stay away from the polls and vote absentee. That is why it is important that Wisconsin simplify the rules for voting via a mail in ballot. One of the most archaic rules governing absentee voting in Wisconsin is the requirement that absentee ballots bear the signature of a witness before it is returned and counted. For many people, that means a spouse serving as the witness. But for others, particularly the state’s elderly population, getting a witness signature can be difficult. As the coronavirus continues to force social distancing, it isn’t advisable for the elderly to invite someone over for a ballot signing party. For those in nursing homes, it can be nearly impossible. Wisconsin is one of only a handful of states with the witness requirement, and in addition to being an impediment to voting, it also seems unnecessary. Those requesting an absentee ballot by mail already have to provide a copy of their photo ID. And they have to sign the ballot, and clerks can easily compare the signature to those already on file. We have to consider the possibility that the coronavirus may impact the November election, and even more people will likely choose to vote absentee. Wisconsin should join the majority of states and do away with the requirement absentee ballots contain a witness signature.