Libertarians condemn petition circulator ban

To the Editor:

The Libertarian Party of Wisconsin strongly opposes the recent federal court decision allowing Wisconsin’s out-of-state petition circulator ban to remain in place. Measures like this do not strengthen democracy, they weaken voter choice and make it harder for grassroots candidates, independent candidates, and third parties to compete in Wisconsin elections.

While supporters of these restrictions often frame them as protections for election integrity, the practical reality is very different. Republicans and Democrats are the least affected by these barriers because they already possess large fundraising networks, institutional support, and ballot access infrastructure. The people harmed most are independent voices, grassroots movements, and smaller political organizations attempting to challenge the political establishment.

Whether it is this measure or other ballot access restrictions, traditional party representatives continue dismissing third-party and independent candidates as “non-viable” while simultaneously supporting systems designed to keep competition out of the political process. These actions reveal a fundamental misunderstanding of Wisconsin’s political landscape and reinforce misconceptions that are passed on to voters and supporters across the state.

The Libertarian Party of Wisconsin joined the legal challenge against this ban because we believe voters deserve more choices, not fewer. Democracy functions best when competition is encouraged, not suppressed through regulatory barriers that favor entrenched political interests.

Wisconsin voters are increasingly frustrated with a two-party system that often prioritizes party loyalty over genuine representation. Restrictive ballot access laws only deepen public distrust and discourage political participation from everyday citizens who want to become involved in the democratic process.

The Libertarian Party of Wisconsin will continue advocating for fair ballot access, equal treatment for candidates regardless of party affiliation, and a political system that welcomes competition instead of fearing it.

Reese Wood

Chair, Libertarian Party of Wisconsin