Voters in Wisconsin have decisively rejected two proposed ballot measures aimed at restricting the governor’s spending authority, according to projections from Decision Desk HQ. The initiatives, introduced by the Republican-led state legislature during Tuesday’s primaries, were designed to impose additional checks on Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers (D) and future governors.
One measure sought to block the legislature from transferring its power to allocate funds, while the other aimed to prevent the governor from using federal funds not specifically allocated for a purpose without legislative consent.
Wisconsin voters block Republican efforts to curtail Gov. Tony Evers’ spending authority in Tuesday’s primaries
These proposals emerged in the wake of substantial federal aid allocated to Wisconsin for COVID-19 relief. Republican legislators championed the measures as necessary constraints on executive power, whereas Democrats, including Evers, criticized them as an overreach. Critics argued that the measures would complicate the process of fund distribution, especially in emergency situations such as natural disasters.
The long-standing tension between the Republican-controlled legislature and Evers, who has served two terms and holds the record for the most vetoes in state history, underscored the debate. The defeat of these measures precedes upcoming legislative elections, where new district maps could potentially enhance Democratic chances for a majority.
