The Wisconsin Elections Commission has issued a formal warning regarding residents who participate in election prediction markets. Trading financial contracts tied to electoral outcomes may disqualify individuals from casting a ballot in the corresponding race and could result in felony charges.
Regulatory Guidance on Market Participation
The WEC determined that buying or selling election-related prediction contracts functions as a wager on official results. Under current state regulations, engaging in this type of financial activity before voting may conflict with voter eligibility standards. Residents who hold active contracts while attempting to vote risk criminal prosecution.The commission specifically referenced digital trading platforms such as Kalshi, which enable users to purchase and sell instruments linked to specific election results. The guidance applies to any registered resident participating in these markets during the same electoral cycle. The WEC advised individuals to review their trading positions before heading to the polls.