Campaign spending in Wisconsin state races is reaching record levels. Significant funds are being poured into presidential, congressional, and state-level contests by Democrats, Republicans, and outside groups, with both parties aiming for control of the state legislature. This trend has been particularly noticeable in Wisconsin.
Last December, the Wisconsin Supreme Court dismissed legislative maps that Democrats argued were biased in favor of Republicans. Consequently, new maps were introduced by Democratic Governor Tony Evers. At a recent rally in suburban Milwaukee, Democratic National Committee Chairperson Jaime Harrison expressed optimism that the party could achieve substantial gains in the state.
One closely watched race is in the 8th Senate District in Milwaukee’s suburbs. Republican incumbent Duey Stroebel is now campaigning in a district where he is unfamiliar to the majority of voters despite its Republican tilt. The area includes suburbs that have shifted Democratic over recent years. Stroebel acknowledged the rarity of redistricting occurring twice within a decade but remained confident about engaging with voters in the new district. He and his supporters have been actively knocking on doors, promoting policies focused on reducing inflation, enhancing children’s reading scores, and advocating for middle-class tax cuts. His opponent, Democrat Jodi Habush Sinykin, who narrowly lost a special election last year, is also energized by the new maps in her campaign.
In a recent encounter in Thiensville, a suburb, Habush Sinykin discussed issues such as illegal immigration and abortion rights with resident Charles Beacham. Her emphasis on reproductive freedoms resonated with Beacham, who pledged his vote for her. Habush Sinykin’s campaign also critiques Stroebel’s legislative history, particularly on abortion and his resistance to certain Democratic initiatives, while aligning with her party’s objectives for significant reforms, like expanding Medicaid.
The financial stakes in this race are substantial, with candidates and external groups spending a record $2.5 million, including funds used for negative television ads. One such ad depicts Stroebel in a demolition derby car, drawing parallels between the chaotic sport and the political landscape. This race is part of a broader trend across the United States where legislative contests are seeing heightened financial contributions, with national committees targeting a $100 million fundraising goal to influence statehouse elections.
Reporting for NPR News was provided by Chuck Quirmbach from Milwaukee.
