Ballot Box. MWC file photo.
MADISON, WI (WSAU) — The Wisconsin Elections Commission is reminding voters that it is against state law to place a bet on any election and then cast a vote.
“We want voters to understand that they cannot legally make a bet on an election and cast a ballot in that same election,” said WEC Administrator Meagan Wolfe via press release. “We are not able to police someone placing a bet on these platforms, but it’s important for voters to understand the consequences if they bet on an election outcome.”
Wolfe says those caught betting on an election and then casting a ballot risk an administrative challenge to voter qualifications, which can lead to loss of voting rights and a referral to the local district attorney for potential charges.
The advice comes as so-called prediction markets have risen in popularity. The most prominent include Kalshi and Polymarket, which allow users to trade and invest in “yes” or “no” outcomes, from sporting events to what the President may do on a certain day.
The platforms have also come under scrutiny from US Lawmakers, who have introduced the Stop Trading On Predictions (STOP) Corrupt Bets Act of 2026, which would ban prediction market bets on elections.
Wisconsin is one of 23 states with laws that prohibit betting or wagering on elections.
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