Wisconsin Democrats Eye 'Trifecta' for 2026 Control

Thu Jan 15 2026 21:17:02 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

With hopes for a Democratic 'trifecta' in 2026, Wisconsin's political landscape is heating up as party leaders strategize to reclaim full control of the Statehouse after years of Republican dominance.

Wisconsin Democrats are looking to reclaim total control of the Statehouse in 2026 for the first time in 16 years, banking on new district boundaries and an open governor's race. Party leaders like Mandela Barnes and Sara Rodriguez express optimism as they aim to flip seats in both the Senate and Assembly. This election comes after a decade of Republican policies that shaped Wisconsin's political identity, and Democrats see a unique opportunity to change the state's direction. However, strategists warn that success is not guaranteed and will require significant effort and clear messaging.

MADISON, Wis. — When you talk to Wisconsin Democrats about their plans for 2026, the term 'trifecta' is on everyone’s lips.

No, not Trump—this is all about regaining complete control, something they haven't achieved in 16 years.

Thanks to new district boundaries ordered by a liberal Supreme Court, an open governor's race, and a favorable election cycle ahead, Democrats believe they have a real shot.

Assembly Minority Leader Greta Neubauer pointed out that after a decade of Democratic challenges, they are strategizing hard to make a Democratic trifecta a reality. 'We’re hopeful about the future,' she shared.

Republicans on Guard

Republicans know the stakes are high. If Democrats succeed, changes like expanding Medicaid and increasing public school funding could be on the table. Former Republican strategist Brian Reisinger remarked, 'If there’s a Democratic trifecta, Republicans in Wisconsin have to be ready to defend against policies they’ve fought for.

Fundraising Sparks Hopes

The upcoming race is heating up, with potential candidates like Mandela Barnes and Sara Rodriguez already building strong fundraising campaigns. Barnes, who narrowly lost a Senate race in 2020, is considered a frontrunner, while Rodriguez has raised impressive amounts since entering the race.

As the election approaches, Democrats are revving up their efforts to not only flip the governorship but also gain necessary seats in the legislature, needing to flip two Senate and five Assembly seats for control.

While parties are gearing up, analysts remind everyone that mere ambition won’t clinch the election. It will take strategic messaging and hard work to win back Wisconsin's vital Statehouse.