Wisconsin Democrats Defeat GOP Amendments, Boosting Momentum Ahead of Election

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Wisconsin Democrats achieved a significant victory by defeating two conservative constitutional amendments, energizing the party ahead of the 2024 elections. The campaign against the amendments highlighted growing voter frustration with Republican tactics and boosted

GOP Constitutional Amendments Rejected in Wisconsin, Boosting Democrats

In a surprising political turn, Wisconsin Democrats celebrated a significant victory in the August primary by defeating two conservative-backed constitutional amendments. This win, achieved through a robust statewide voter mobilization effort, has fueled Democratic enthusiasm as the final stretch to the November elections begins. The amendments, which aimed to require legislative approval for the governor's spending of federal funds, were rejected by margins of 57-43 percent and 58-42 percent, marking only the second time since 1996 that Wisconsin voters have rejected a constitutional amendment.

Mobilization Efforts and Strategy Pay Off for Democrats

Initially seen as an uphill battle, the successful campaign against the amendments highlights the power of strategic voter engagement. In June, internal polling suggested the amendments were on track to pass, with one leading by double digits. However, a coordinated effort by the Democratic Party of Wisconsin and allied groups turned the tide. Ben Wikler, chair of the Wisconsin Democrats, noted that the amendments would "undermine our system of checks and balances" and restrict the governor’s ability to respond to emergencies, making it a fight worth taking on despite the initial odds.

The party’s mobilization efforts were extensive. The Wisconsin Democrats allocated $250,000 for advertising, while the Wisconsin Votes NO coalition, led by Wisconsin Conservation Voters, invested $1.9 million in field organizing, mailers, and digital ads. These efforts resulted in the highest August primary turnout in a presidential election year since 1964, ultimately defeating the amendments by decisive margins.

Republican Amendments Seen as Overreach Amid Political Gridlock

The rejected amendments were part of a broader effort by Wisconsin Republicans to exert greater control over state finances, particularly in light of Governor Tony Evers’ handling of federal COVID-19 relief funds. Evers, a Democrat, allocated 94 percent of the $5.1 billion in federal aid available to him, prompting criticism from Republican lawmakers who felt sidelined. Supporters of the amendments argued that they would provide necessary oversight on federal spending. Still, opponents contended they would hinder the governor's ability to act swiftly in crises, especially given Wisconsin’s historically inactive legislature.

Wikler emphasized the importance of framing the amendments as politically motivated attacks on executive power, highlighting Republican frustration over Evers' spending decisions. He explained that once voters understood the intent behind the amendments—limiting the governor's ability to use federal funds without legislative approval—they were more likely to oppose them. This messaging resonated with voters across the state, helping to secure the amendments' defeat.

Future Implications for Wisconsin Politics

The defeat of these amendments not only represents a tactical win for Wisconsin Democrats but also signals broader implications for future elections. The strong voter turnout and engagement suggest that Democratic voters are increasingly motivated by what they perceive as Republican overreach. With more than 140 ballot measures up for a vote across 41 states this November, including critical decisions on abortion rights in 10 states, Wisconsin’s recent primary results could serve as a blueprint for Democratic strategies nationwide.

Looking ahead, Wisconsin Republicans have signaled their intent to continue pushing for constitutional amendments. Assembly Speaker Robin Vos has indicated that the GOP will "double down" on these efforts. However, the backlash against the recent amendments may serve as a cautionary tale. As Wikler noted, "If Republicans really want to do something bad by amending the Constitution, it can actually blowback and cost them not only a victory of their constitutional amendments but victories of other races as well."

The August primary has set the stage for a contentious election season in Wisconsin, with Democrats riding high on their recent success. The rejection of the amendments has not only thwarted a Republican power play but also galvanized Democratic supporters, who are now more energized than ever to challenge GOP control in the state legislature and beyond.

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