Milwaukee Election Commission 

Government Creative Services Direct-to-Community Engagement Integrated Media Research & Evaluation Strategic Planning Technology Integration
79%
of registered voters participated
1.7M
impressions

In 2020, Milwaukee residents faced multiple barriers to voting, from COVID-19 concerns to limited access, information gaps, and low trust in the process. The city partnered with CMRignite to create a multimedia voter education campaign aimed at increasing participation and instilling confidence in the electoral process. 

The “Votes Count in the 414” campaign engaged over 40 community organizations, partners, and businesses to amplify messaging and build trust. Its edgy, urban creative approach resonated with registered voters and delivered clear, actionable information about early voting, in-person voting, and absentee mail-in options. 

The results were measurable and impactful. Voter turnout increased across early voting, in-person voting, and absentee mail-in ballots, demonstrating the campaign’s ability to overcome barriers and drive civic engagement. The effort reinforced the Milwaukee Election Commission’s commitment to making every vote count.

“The City of Milwaukee Election Commission could not have been more please with our experience working with Creative Marketing Resources (CMR) to conduct a public information campaign around voting during the 2020 Presidential Election.”

60k+
voters cast ballots at early voting sites
180k+
absentee ballots requested