By Ald. Milele Coggs
If actions speak louder than words, then the roar from Milwaukee voters in support of same-day registration should be heard loud and clear in Madison after yesterday’s referendum vote.
By an overwhelming, nearly three-to-one margin, Milwaukeeans went to the polls yesterday and answered “yes” to the question, “Should the state of Wisconsin continue to permit citizens to register to vote at the polls on Election Day?” I would like to thank everyone who made their voices heard on this critical issue, affirming that they want their right to vote protected.
It was heartening to see groups of activists and individuals alike help raise awareness of this important referendum question and get out the vote on Election Day. By pounding the pavement and storming social media, they were instrumental in this successful exercise of democracy, and I am truly grateful for their efforts.
The results of this referendum send a clear message to state lawmakers in Madison that Milwaukee voters not only value the ability to register to vote on Election Day, but they also see it as a part of their fundamental rights. I hope legislators take heed of this, as well as the financial costs that would be associated with ending same-day registration, and end their pursuit of this wrong-headed policy change.
