Wisconsin Supreme Court Rules State’s Legislative Maps Unconstitutional

In a 4-3 decision, the Wisconsin Supreme Court has declared the Republican legislative maps unconstitutional and ordered the state Legislature to draw new boundaries before the August 2024 primary election. The court also ruled that if the Legislature and the Governor do not pass new maps, the court has the right to draw the maps itself.

In a state where Democrats often receive more votes than Republicans in statewide elections, Republicans have built and held overwhelming majorities in the state Senate and Assembly.

“We do not have free license to enact maps that privilege one political party over another,” Justice Jill Karofsky wrote in the majority opinion.

WEAC President Peggy Wirtz-Olsen said fair maps are essential if we are to hold lawmakers on both sides of the aisle accountable for their votes on issues that impact public education.

“Educators teach students that it is the duty of elected officials to promote the general welfare of all Wisconsinites,” Wirtz-Olsen said. “It’s time to return to that basic function of government. Educators, parents and all Wisconsinites deserve representatives who reflect our shared values. Fair maps can make it so voters again elect our representatives instead of them selecting their voters.”