In the battleground state of Wisconsin, Democrats are poised for success. With the first majority on the state Supreme Court in 15 years, new maps that could erode Republican majorities in the state Legislature, and a strong incumbent governor, Democrats see a golden opportunity to regain power from the GOP.
Wisconsin, historically known for its Midwestern progressivism, experienced a conservative transformation under former Gov. Scott Walker’s tenure. Republicans implemented conservative policies and redrew maps that solidified their control of state government. Even after Gov. Tony Evers’ victory in 2018, Republicans continued to limit his power.
However, Democrats now have a favorable state Supreme Court and political momentum on their side. They are determined to reverse the deeply entrenched advantages held by Republicans. The opportunity to have fair maps can bring significant changes. Sen. Tammy Baldwin stated, “This opportunity to have fair maps is going to change a lot of things.”
The recent victory of liberals on the Supreme Court quickly led to challenges against GOP-friendly legislative maps. The court ruled them unconstitutional, ordering new maps for the 2024 elections. If more politically competitive maps are implemented, Democrats could pick away at conservative laws and reshape policy on issues such as Medicaid expansion, marijuana legalization, and paid family leave.
Furthermore, the new maps could diminish the Republican supermajority and their ability to overturn Evers’ vetoes. Gerrymandering has allowed Republicans to maintain power despite a state that is evenly divided between Democrats and Republicans.
The turning tide in Wisconsin is evident in the series of victories Democrats have achieved in recent years. Democrats have won 15 of the last 18 statewide races since President Donald Trump’s surprise win in 2016. The most significant victory came with Janet Protasiewicz’s win in the Supreme Court race. Democrats are capitalizing on this momentum to challenge GOP control.
Wisconsin Republicans are struggling to counter the recent Democratic successes. They have faced infighting and focused on abortion restrictions. GOP lawmakers have pursued bills to restrict abortion and curtail voting rights, despite public opposition. The energy surrounding Democrats in the state is not necessarily translating to support for President Joe Biden, as his approval rating is low compared to that of Gov. Evers.
Nevertheless, Democrats believe that their focus on infrastructure, abortion rights, and the strength of the economy can help Biden win the state in the upcoming presidential election. Democrats see this as an opportunity to make historic gains in the state Legislature and begin undoing the system that Republicans created for their own control.
The 2024 elections in Wisconsin will be critical, and Democrats are determined to break the GOP’s grip on power. With a favorable political landscape and a motivated base, they are poised for success.