The Wisconsin Legislature meets in special session for a second day Thursday on Governor Evers’ call for a constitutional amendment banning partisan gerrymandering.
Thursday marks the second day of a special legislative session called by Gov. Tony Evers to consider a constitutional amendment banning partisan gerrymandering in Wisconsin.Republican leaders in the Assembly and Senate convened the session Tuesday as ordered by the Democratic governor but did not immediately gavel in and out as they have in more than a dozen previous special sessions.
Instead, they left the session open to allow for continued discussion and public input on the proposal.GOP lawmakers said they were open to negotiating with Evers on the issue. Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu and Assembly Speaker Robin Vos indicated the move was intended to foster meaningful dialogue rather than dismiss the governor’s call outright.
Evers rejected any compromise, issuing a statement Tuesday saying there is “no room for compromise” on banning partisan gerrymandering. The governor’s proposal would add language to the state constitution stating that legislative districts “shall not provide a disproportionate advantage or disadvantage to any political party.”
Constitutional amendments require passage in two consecutive legislative sessions before going to voters for approval.The special session was called after the adoption of new legislative maps in 2024. Republicans, who hold majorities in both chambers, have expressed skepticism about the amendment’s wording and its potential effects on the map-drawing process.
No votes have been taken on the measure. Lawmakers are expected to continue discussions as the session remains open.
