Badger Books

A Badger Book is an electronic poll book used in place of traditional paper poll books at all City of New Berlin polling locations. It is used to:

  • Check in registered voters
  • Issue voter numbers
  • Register new voters on Election Day

Badger Books streamline the check-in process, reduce wait times, and improve the accuracy of voter records. They eliminate the need to print multiple paper poll books and reduce the time spent scanning voter barcodes at the end of Election Day to record participation.

Does this change how I vote?

Not at all. The voting process remains the same:

  • You will still receive a paper ballot (unless you choose to use the ExpressVote ADA-compliant marking device).
  • You will mark your ballot as usual
  • You will insert your ballot into the tabulator to cast your vote

Security and Connectivity

  • Badger Books are NOT connected to the internet
  • They are NOT connected to the tabulator
  • Voter data is securely transferred to the devices prior to Election Day
  • After the election, data is securely returned to the City Clerk and uploaded to WisVote to record your voter participation

Your vote is always cast and counted using paper ballots, not electronically. 

Training for Election Officials

All election officials receive training on how to use the Badger Books. 

New Berlin's Transition

The City of New Berlin implemented Badger Books at all polling places starting with the February 21, 2023 Spring Primary Election. The transition has improved efficiency and the voter experience.

Want to learn more?

The City Clerk created the informational video below prior to introducing Badger Books at polling locations in 2023. We encourage you to watch the video to learn more.