Wisconsin Primary to Shape Senate and Congressional Races

MADISON, Wis. — Wisconsin's primary elections on Tuesday will determine candidates for the U.S. Senate and key congressional races, while also testing the influence of former President Donald Trump's endorsements. The primary comes amid proposed amendments that would require legislative approval for the governor to spend federal disaster relief funds, a move opposed by Democrats who argue it could delay urgent financial assistance. In the Senate race, Republican Eric Hovde, a millionaire banker backed by Trump, is expected to secure a decisive victory in the primary. Hovde has invested $13 million of his own funds into the campaign and is gearing up to challenge incumbent Democratic Senator Tammy Baldwin in the fall. This race is crucial for Democrats aiming to retain control of the Senate. Meanwhile, in the Eighth Congressional District, Trump-endorsed candidate Tony Wied is vying for the Republican nomination against former state Senate President Roger Roth and anti-abortion rights state Senator Andrew Jacque. Wied's campaign is seen as a test of Trump's endorsement power, as he faces challengers with legislative experience. The Third Congressional District, previously held by Democrats for 26 years before flipping in 2022, features a competitive Democratic primary. Longtime state Rep. Katrina Shankland is up against small-business owner Rebecca Cooke and newcomer Eric Wilson, all aiming to unseat incumbent Republican Rep. Derrick Van Orden, a key target for Democrats in the upcoming election. Voter turnout on Tuesday will be a significant indicator of party momentum heading into the November elections.