Wisconsin Democrats launch $7 million TV ad blitz for crucial state Senate races

While Wisconsin is accustomed to significant spending in high-profile races, such as gubernatorial elections, this substantial investment underscores the Democrats’ determination to shift the balance of power in the Senate, where Republicans have maintained a stronghold for over a decade.

The scale of this ad purchase is notable, representing nearly half of Democrats’ total spending on legislative races during the 2022 cycle. With Republicans currently holding a commanding 22-10 supermajority in the 33-seat Senate, Democrats are aiming to capitalize on newly drawn district boundaries signed by Governor Tony Evers in February.

Targeting key regions including Milwaukee’s northern suburbs, rural areas north of Madison, the Fox Cities, Green Bay, and La Crosse, Democrats are strategically positioning themselves to challenge Republican dominance. The selection of districts aligns with areas where President Joe Biden and Governor Tony Evers secured victories in recent elections, suggesting fertile ground for Democratic candidates.

The ad campaign will feature tailored messages addressing local issues and will commence following Wisconsin’s August 13th primary. Democrats’ concerted effort to contest every Senate race for the first time in over two decades underscores their optimism and the significance of the upcoming elections.

However, Senate Republican Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu characterized the ad blitz as a partisan attempt to buy control of government institutions, reflecting the intensity of the political battle brewing in Wisconsin ahead of the November elections.