Poll: Wisconsinites continue to favor Baldwin over Hovde in U.S. Senate race

(The Center Square) - Wisconsin Democratic U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin continues to lead challenger Eric Hovde in both favorability and voter recognition, according to recent polls by Marquette Law School.

Baldwin has a -1 net favorability rating with 45% favorable, 44% unfavorable, and 11% not knowing enough to have an opinion.

Hovde has a -9 net favorability rating with only 23% of voters holding a favorable view, 32% unfavorable, and 44% not knowing enough about him to have an opinion.

While Hovde’s favorability has grown slightly with recognition, so have voters’ negative views of him.

In April, 56% of polled Wisconsin voters were not familiar with the candidate, while 24% had a negative opinion. Now, the percentage of unfamiliar voters has dropped to the 40s, but unfavorable views of Hovde have risen to the 30s.

Hovde has focused on the economy, national security in foreign policy and immigration, and healthcare system reform. He has accused Baldwin of accepting money from special interest donors and “rubber stamping” President Joe Biden’s agenda.

Baldwin has centered her campaign around abortion and IVF access, health care affordability, gun violence, and student debt relief. She has accused Hovde of racial ignorance and conducting business in China.

The most important issues for registered Wisconsin voters are the economy, immigration and border security and abortion policy. The two candidates are set to debate Oct. 18.