Wausau Mayor's Removal of Ballot Drop Box Sparks Investigation

In a controversial move, Doug Diny, the mayor of Wausau, Wisconsin, has come under scrutiny for removing an absentee ballot drop box from outside City Hall. The incident, which occurred on September 22, 2024, has prompted Marathon County District Attorney Theresa Wetzsteon to initiate an investigation into the matter.

Wausau, the county seat of Marathon County, is a city with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1839 as a sawmill town. With a population of 39,994 as of the 2020 census, it has grown from its forest products and manufacturing roots to become a hub for outdoor recreation and cultural events, such as the annual Artrageous Weekend.

The removal of the drop box has reignited the debate over voting accessibility in Wisconsin, a state known for its swing status in presidential elections. This incident comes approximately two months after the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled that drop boxes are legal, leaving the decision to use them up to local communities.

Tony Evers, Wisconsin's governor since January 2019, expressed his disapproval of the mayor's actions on social media platform X:

"Drop box voting is safe, secure, and legal. As elected officials, we should be working to make it easier—not harder—for every eligible Wisconsinite to cast their ballot. That's democracy."

[[Governor Tony Evers]]

The governor's statement reflects Wisconsin's long history of progressive politics, which dates back to the early 20th century. It also underscores the ongoing tension between efforts to expand voting access and concerns about election security.

While the drop box was locked and empty at the time of removal, the incident has raised questions about the balance between local authority and state-level voting policies. The Wisconsin Department of Justice, established in 1965, may assist in the investigation at the request of District Attorney Wetzsteon.

This controversy highlights the complex landscape of voting rights and procedures in Wisconsin. The state, which joined the Union in 1848, allows for absentee voting both by mail and in-person before Election Day. As "America's Dairyland" grapples with this latest political challenge, it's worth noting that Wisconsin's diverse geography – bordering four states and featuring the flagship University of Wisconsin-Madison – contributes to its varied political landscape.

As the investigation unfolds, residents of Wausau and observers across the state will be watching closely. The outcome may have implications not only for local voting practices but also for the broader debate on election accessibility in a state known for its pivotal role in national politics.