Spring Elections 2025: Empowering Change at Local and State Levels

As the 2025 spring election season approaches, Wisconsin residents have a unique opportunity to shape policy through local government. Beginning December 1, candidates can circulate nomination papers for positions like municipal councils, county boards, school boards, and judgeships. These roles, though often overlooked, hold substantial power to influence state legislation and advance cannabis policy reform.

Why Local Elections Matter

Local governments serve as testing grounds for policies that can inspire state-level changes. In Wisconsin, municipalities and counties have led the way on cannabis decriminalization, often passing ordinances to reduce penalties for possession. These local laws not only provide immediate relief to residents but also create momentum for statewide legalization efforts.

County boards and city councils, for instance, can pass resolutions advocating for broader cannabis reform, adding pressure on state legislators to act. Similarly, district attorneys and judges elected at the local level play pivotal roles in interpreting and enforcing cannabis-related laws, affecting thousands of lives.

Key Dates and Deadlines

• December 1, 2023: Start circulating nomination papers.
• January 2, 2024: Deadline for submission.
• February 20, 2024: Spring primary election.
• April 2, 2024: Spring general election.

These dates are more than administrative checkpoints—they mark your chance to champion candidates committed to meaningful reform. By supporting leaders aligned with cannabis advocacy, voters can drive policies that reflect public opinion and prioritize community well-being.

How You Can Get Involved

1. Support Candidates: Identify and assist candidates who back cannabis decriminalization and legalization. Volunteer to collect signatures or contribute to their campaigns.
2. Educate Your Community: Organize local forums or discussions about the importance of these elections in shaping cannabis policy.
3. Vote Wisely: Research candidates’ positions on issues beyond cannabis, such as education, housing, and public health. Informed voting amplifies your voice in creating a more equitable society.

The 2025 spring elections present a strategic opportunity to align Wisconsin’s local governance with its residents’ growing support for cannabis reform. By participating, you can help bridge the gap between public sentiment and policy, making Wisconsin a leader in progressive change.