MADISON, Wis. (AP) — In discussions among Wisconsin Democrats regarding the upcoming 2026 elections, the word 'trifecta' is front and center. With new district boundaries imposed by the liberal-controlled state Supreme Court, an open race for governor, and a favorable midterm election cycle, the party believes this could finally be their moment to reclaim comprehensive control of the Statehouse for the first time in 16 years.
This potential shift would signify a dramatic turnaround in a state that has been a significant battleground for the conservative movement since 2010, when policies aimed at tax cuts, labor union restrictions, and voter ID laws took hold under Republican leadership.
It's a challenging moment in national politics, stated Greta Neubauer, the Assembly Minority Leader, expressing hope that the groundwork laid over the years positions Democrats to regain control and take Wisconsin in a new direction.
The state witnessed a 'Cheesehead Revolution' after Republicans captured majorities in the legislature in 2010, with figures like Scott Walker leading conservative reforms. However, that era may be challenged now as Democratic candidates like Mandela Barnes, a former lieutenant governor, and Sara Rodriguez, the current lieutenant governor, express optimism about the governor's race.
This is our moment to achieve a blue trifecta in Wisconsin! Barnes declared in a recent fundraising effort, mirroring Rodriguez's sentiments on social media about having a real chance next year.
Amid that optimism, Republicans are preparing for potential setbacks to the policies they've fought for over the years. With Donald Trump winning Wisconsin in both the 2016 and 2024 elections, the stakes are high for Democrats, aiming for a compelling performance that could set the stage leading into the 2028 presidential race.
Recent developments also show that Democrats have gained ground among judicial leadership, raising substantial campaign funds ahead of the critical gubernatorial election and aiming for potential legislative victories under new district maps.
However, both parties are wary of the implications of this electoral battle. Republican Assembly Speaker Robin Vos argues that Democrats may struggle unless they present clear plans beyond opposing Trump. Meanwhile, activists urge Democrats to offer concrete proposals to energize voters.
As the election looms closer, all eyes will be on Wisconsin, a state that could play a pivotal role in shaping national politics in the years to come.
This potential shift would signify a dramatic turnaround in a state that has been a significant battleground for the conservative movement since 2010, when policies aimed at tax cuts, labor union restrictions, and voter ID laws took hold under Republican leadership.
It's a challenging moment in national politics, stated Greta Neubauer, the Assembly Minority Leader, expressing hope that the groundwork laid over the years positions Democrats to regain control and take Wisconsin in a new direction.
The state witnessed a 'Cheesehead Revolution' after Republicans captured majorities in the legislature in 2010, with figures like Scott Walker leading conservative reforms. However, that era may be challenged now as Democratic candidates like Mandela Barnes, a former lieutenant governor, and Sara Rodriguez, the current lieutenant governor, express optimism about the governor's race.
This is our moment to achieve a blue trifecta in Wisconsin! Barnes declared in a recent fundraising effort, mirroring Rodriguez's sentiments on social media about having a real chance next year.
Amid that optimism, Republicans are preparing for potential setbacks to the policies they've fought for over the years. With Donald Trump winning Wisconsin in both the 2016 and 2024 elections, the stakes are high for Democrats, aiming for a compelling performance that could set the stage leading into the 2028 presidential race.
Recent developments also show that Democrats have gained ground among judicial leadership, raising substantial campaign funds ahead of the critical gubernatorial election and aiming for potential legislative victories under new district maps.
However, both parties are wary of the implications of this electoral battle. Republican Assembly Speaker Robin Vos argues that Democrats may struggle unless they present clear plans beyond opposing Trump. Meanwhile, activists urge Democrats to offer concrete proposals to energize voters.
As the election looms closer, all eyes will be on Wisconsin, a state that could play a pivotal role in shaping national politics in the years to come.
