Table of Contents
The 2024 United States presidential election in Wisconsin is coming soon, and it’s already getting lots of attention. Wisconsin is one of the most important states in every presidential race. Why? Because it’s a swing state that can go either way—Democrat or Republican. That means people in Wisconsin play a big part in deciding who becomes the next President of the United States. If you live in Wisconsin, your vote really matters. This article is here to help you understand what’s going on, what to expect, and how you can get involved. Whether you’re a first-time voter or paying closer attention this year, we’ll break everything down in a super simple and easy-to-read way. You’ll learn about key candidates, dates to remember, how voting works in Wisconsin, and much more about the 2024 election.
Why Wisconsin Is So Important in the 2024 Presidential Election
The 2024 United States presidential election in Wisconsin matters a lot for one big reason—it’s a battleground state. That means both Democrats and Republicans have a good shot at winning here. In 2016, Donald Trump won Wisconsin by a very small number of votes. In 2020, Joe Biden won it back—again, with just a tiny margin. Because it’s so close, both parties focus a lot of time, ads, and events in Wisconsin. Winning Wisconsin’s 10 electoral votes could help decide the whole election. So if you’re a Wisconsin voter, your voice is powerful.
When Is the 2024 Presidential Election in Wisconsin?
The official day to vote in the 2024 United States presidential election in Wisconsin is Tuesday, November 5, 2024. That’s when millions of voters across the U.S. will choose their next president. But you don’t have to wait until Election Day to vote. Wisconsin offers early voting and mail-in ballots. Early in-person voting often starts about two weeks before November 5. If you know you’ll be busy on Election Day, plan ahead to vote early or by absentee ballot. It’s quick, simple, and completely safe.
Key Presidential Candidates in 2024
The two major political parties—Democratic and Republican—are expected to have familiar names on the ballot again. For the Democrats, President Joe Biden is running for a second term. For the Republicans, former President Donald Trump is once again in the race. There may also be independent or third-party candidates, but most of the attention will likely stay on Biden and Trump. Wisconsin voters will be hearing a lot from both campaigns. Expect to see commercials, flyers, and local campaign visits as both sides work to win hearts—and votes.
How Many Electoral Votes Does Wisconsin Have?
In the 2024 United States presidential election in Wisconsin, the state brings 10 electoral votes to the table. The total number of electoral votes in the U.S. is 538. A candidate needs at least 270 to win the presidency. While 10 might seem like a small number, Wisconsin’s votes are often deciding factors in close elections. That’s why presidential candidates spend so much time in Wisconsin with town halls, ads, and rallies. Winning Wisconsin can tip the balance for the entire country.
How to Register to Vote in Wisconsin
If you want to take part in the 2024 United States presidential election in Wisconsin, you’ll need to register to vote first. Good news—it’s easy and quick. You can register:
- Online at myvote.wi.gov
- By mail using a registration form
- In person at your local municipal clerk’s office
- On Election Day at your polling place
You’ll need a valid ID, like a driver’s license or state ID, and proof of residence. Wisconsin also allows same-day registration, so you can register and vote on November 5 if needed. Don’t wait too long. Register early so you’re ready to vote.
Voting Options in Wisconsin
For the 2024 election in Wisconsin, you have several ways to vote:
- In-person on Election Day
- Early in-person voting (usually runs up to two weeks before Election Day)
- Absentee voting by mail
If you choose to vote by mail, request your ballot early and return it with enough time to be counted. You can drop it off at official ballot drop boxes or mail it back. Check myvote.wi.gov to track your ballot, find your polling place, or get all the latest updates about voting options in your area.
Wisconsin Counties to Watch in 2024
While every vote matters, some counties in Wisconsin get more political attention during elections. These are the “swing counties”—places with voters who could go either way. Important counties to watch include:
- Milwaukee County (leans Democrat)
- Dane County (leans Democrat, includes Madison)
- Waukesha, Ozaukee, and Washington Counties (lean Republican)
- Brown County (home to Green Bay, often swings)
When election night comes, analysts carefully track these areas to see which way Wisconsin might tip.
The Role of Young Voters
Young voters—especially those age 18 to 24—can have a big impact in the 2024 United States presidential election in Wisconsin. But only if they vote. Often, young people have lower turnout, but that’s changing. Schools, colleges, and community organizations are working to make voting easier for students and new voters. If you’re in this group, make sure you’re registered, have your ID, and understand how to vote. Share info with friends, start conversations, and use your social media for good. Your vote could be the one that makes history.
Early Voting and Absentee Ballot Deadlines
If you’re planning to vote early or by mail in the 2024 United States presidential election in Wisconsin, pay attention to deadlines. Wisconsin usually starts early voting about two weeks before Election Day. The deadline to request an absentee ballot by mail is usually about five days before the election, but it’s safer to request it sooner. Your absentee ballot must be received by Election Day to count. Visit myvote.wi.gov for exact dates when they’re officially posted. Set simple alerts on your phone so you don’t miss out.
Hot Topics That Will Drive Wisconsin Voters
Each presidential election focuses on the key issues voters care about most. In 2024, Wisconsin residents may focus on topics like:
- Jobs and the economy
- Healthcare
- Climate change and farming
- Education and student loans
- Gun safety
- Abortion rights
- Inflation
- Public safety
Candidates will shape their messaging around these issues, hold events in rural and urban settings, and tune into what Wisconsin families say they care about most. It’s always a smart idea to learn where each candidate stands and how those views affect your daily life.
How Wisconsin Voted in Past Presidential Elections
Looking back can help us understand what might happen in the 2024 United States presidential election in Wisconsin. In 2016, Donald Trump won Wisconsin by fewer than 23,000 votes. That surprise flipped the state red for the first time since 1984. In 2020, Joe Biden won Wisconsin back by a thin margin of just about 20,000 votes. It’s clear that the state isn’t strongly red or blue—it swings depending on turnout, issues, and candidate appeal. That’s why both parties see Wisconsin as one of the most critical places to win in 2024.
What Voters Can Do Right Now to Get Ready
You don’t have to wait for November to prepare for the 2024 United States presidential election in Wisconsin. Here’s how you can get ready now:
- Visit myvote.wi.gov to register and check your status
- Make sure your ID is current and acceptable for voting
- Learn about candidates and their platforms
- Talk to your friends and family about voting
- Decide if you’re voting in-person or by mail
- Set reminders for early voting or registration deadlines
The more prepared you are, the smoother your voting day will be.
FAQs
1. When is the 2024 presidential election in Wisconsin?
It’s scheduled for Tuesday, November 5, 2024.
2. Can I register to vote on Election Day in Wisconsin?
Yes! Wisconsin allows same-day voter registration with valid ID and proof of residence.
3. How can I vote early in Wisconsin?
You can vote early in-person at your local clerk’s office or request an absentee ballot online.
4. Do I need an ID to vote in Wisconsin?
Yes, you need a photo ID. A state ID or valid driver’s license works just fine.
5. Who are the top candidates for 2024?
As of now, major contenders are President Joe Biden for Democrats and former President Donald Trump for Republicans.
6. How many electoral votes does Wisconsin have?
Wisconsin has 10 electoral votes up for grabs in the 2024 election.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 United States presidential election in Wisconsin could shape the future of the entire country. With just 10 electoral votes but a powerful swing status, Wisconsin continues to be a key state for every candidate. Your vote won’t just matter—it could be the vote that pushes your favorite candidate to the finish line. Get ready now. Learn the rules. Understand the process. Tell your friends. Share important deadlines. And most of all—make sure you show up and vote. Because Wisconsin doesn’t just watch national politics—it helps decide it.