The political landscape in Wisconsin is shifting focus, with the upcoming state Supreme Court race and the 2026 elections set to determine which party controls the Legislature and Governor's Office. Key victories were scored by both Republicans and Democrats in recent elections.
Republican Wins:
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Former President Donald Trump's narrow victory in Wisconsin bolstered the state's Republican Party, which has struggled in statewide races since 2018. Trump secured 49.71% of the vote, edging out Vice President Kamala Harris, who had 48.85%.
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Republicans celebrated their early voting and volunteer network successes, dismissing Democratic claims of superior ground operations. They highlighted the narrow defeat of Democratic Senate candidate Eric Hovde and the failure of Democrats to secure a majority in the Legislature despite their gains.
Democratic Gains:
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Democrats made significant strides in the state Legislature, flipping 10 Assembly districts and four Senate seats, positioning themselves for a potential Senate majority by 2026. They also pointed to successes in high-profile races, like Sen. Tammy Baldwin's win, and continued to highlight abortion rights as a major issue.
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Despite the presidential loss, Democrats maintain they have built a strong statewide infrastructure. They see their legislative wins as a sign of progress, with many focusing on the long-term goal of gaining control of the state government by 2026.
Focus on Supreme Court Race:
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The race for the state Supreme Court, scheduled for April, is a major battleground. It will determine the court's ideological balance. The liberal majority currently holds a 4-3 advantage, but this could shift with the retirement of Justice Ann Walsh Bradley. The candidates are liberal Dane County Circuit Judge Susan Crawford and conservative former Attorney General Brad Schimel. Abortion rights are expected to be a central issue in the race, as they were in the previous year’s high-cost judicial election.
Legislative Landscape and 2026 Prospects:
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Republicans retain control of the state Assembly (54-45), even with Democrats gaining seats. Republican leaders are optimistic about expanding their majority in 2026, despite challenges posed by new district maps. Democrats, meanwhile, need to flip just a few more seats to take control of both the Assembly and Senate in two years.
Governor's Race:
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A major question for Democrats is whether incumbent Governor Tony Evers will seek a third term in 2026. Evers, currently popular, won his last two elections by narrow margins. If he decides not to run, potential Democratic candidates include Attorney General Josh Kaul and Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson, while Republicans are considering figures like U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany and former Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch.
Both parties are gearing up for the Supreme Court race and the pivotal 2026 elections, each focusing on their respective strengths and challenges in a highly competitive political environment.
