Groups spend millions to try and defeat Aug. 13 constitutional amendments

 

MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Democrats are outspending Republican-leaning groups in part of their effort to defeat a pair of constitutional amendments on the Aug. 13 ballot.

Anti-amendment groups have reported raising $3.5 million, according to latest filings that were first reported by WisPolitics. That's compared to $15,218 raised by a group who registered in support of the referendums.

The pair of ballot questions seek to amend Wisconsin's constitution by restricting the governor's power to spend federal funds. If approved, Gov. Tony Evers and any future governor would have to get legislative approval before spending money from the federal government.

There's been a flood of advertising across the state by both sides to try and sway voters on issues that could give lawmakers more input on how to distribute federal aid.

The Institute for Reforming Government and Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty, two conservative groups, launched a six-figure ad buy in support of the referendum in addition to the more than $15,000 reported.

Meanwhile Democratic-backed groups have invested millions trying to sway people to vote no on the ballot proposals.

Phil Rocco, an associate professor of political science at Marquette University, said one reason behind the varying levels of spending between both parties is because it typically takes more time and resources to defeat constitutional amendments.

"The 'vote no' side is well apprised to the fact their deck is sort of stacked against them," Rocco said. "This will be a low turnout race, and we know from the history of constitutional amendments that it usually takes a pretty heavy lift to get voters to reject them."

Historically, Wisconsin voters approve constitutional amendments when they're on the ballot. It's why Democrats are investing heavily in trying to educate voters in a low-turnout election.

If the August ballot measures are approved by voters, it would give Republicans back-to-back victories after two constitutional amendments they placed on the April ballot passed with more than 50% of voters supporting both of them.

Ben Wikler, chairman of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin, said the party has bolstered their 'vote no' efforts since the April election.

Constitutional amendments are becoming more prevalent as Republicans, who control the Legislature, see it as an opportunity to pass their agenda that is often rejected by Gov. Evers.

Evers cannot veto constitutional amendments, and they must pass two consecutive legislative sessions before they are placed on the ballot.

Republicans have successfully voted to place five referendum questions throughout the 2024 election cycle.