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Bill

SB 1117

Relating to: entering into an agreement among the states to elect the president and vice president of the United States by means of a national popular vote.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tim Carpenter and 12 co-sponsors

Wisconsin would join the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, pledging its electoral votes to the national popular vote winner once states totaling 270 electors join.

Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1117

Legislative bill overview

SB 1117 would authorize Wisconsin to join the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact (NPVIC), an agreement among states to allocate their electoral votes to the candidate who wins the national popular vote, rather than the state-level popular vote winner. The compact only becomes binding once states representing 270 electoral votes (a majority needed to win the presidency) have joined.

Why is this important

This proposal would fundamentally alter how Wisconsin participates in presidential elections and could shift the state's political influence depending on national voting patterns rather than Wisconsin-specific results. It represents an ongoing national debate about whether the Electoral College or a direct popular vote better serves democratic principles.

Potential points of contention

  • Electoral power shift: Under NPVIC, Wisconsin could be required to award its electoral votes to a candidate who lost the state, potentially diminishing the state's swing-state status and influence in presidential campaigns
  • Constitutional concerns: Critics argue the compact may conflict with the Constitution's Electoral College framework, and supporters counter that states have clear authority to allocate electors as they see fit
  • Partisan implications: The proposal's support/opposition often splits along partisan lines, with concerns about which party would benefit under a national popular vote system
  • Implementation risks: The compact's effectiveness depends on achieving the 270-vote threshold; Wisconsin joining without sufficient other states could create asymmetrical results

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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