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Democratic Socialists in Wisconsin Face Critical Test Amid Campaign Finance Scandals

Democratic Socialists in Wisconsin Face Critical Test Amid Campaign Finance Scandals

Francesca Hong, a democratic socialist and state assemblywoman from Madison, is leading the Democratic field in Wisconsin's gubernatorial race. Her candidacy comes at a time when the Democratic Party is experiencing significant internal shifts, with progressive insurgencies gaining traction in various parts of the country. Hong's main Democratic rivals, Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez and former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, have exited the race due to campaign finance scandals, leaving Hong as the frontrunner. Despite efforts by outgoing Governor Tony Evers and others to rally support for a more moderate candidate, David Crowley, Hong remains the leading contender. Her campaign has faced criticism from Republican US Rep. Tom Tiffany, who has linked her to the Democratic Socialists of America and highlighted her past comments on defunding the police.
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Wisconsin Governor Race: Key Candidates and Their Platforms

Wisconsin Governor Race: Key Candidates and Their Platforms

As the Wisconsin gubernatorial primary approaches, voters are evaluating candidates from both major parties. On the Democratic side, candidates include Francesca Hong, David Crowley, Kelda Roys, and Joel Brennan. Each candidate presents distinct policy proposals, such as Hong's focus on legalizing marijuana to fund rural broadband and Crowley's emphasis on making Wisconsin the healthiest state in the Midwest. On the Republican side, U.S. Representative Tom Tiffany is a leading candidate, advocating for reduced regulations and opposing certain educational and social policies. The primary is set for August 11, with significant voter indecision reported in recent polls.
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Wisconsin Primary Elections: Key Matchups and Implications for November

Wisconsin Primary Elections: Key Matchups and Implications for November

The upcoming Wisconsin primary elections feature several key races that could significantly impact the political landscape in the state. In the 6th Congressional District, Amanda Bell and Brad Smith are competing in the Democratic primary, with the winner facing Republican Glenn Grothman and other candidates in November. The 3rd Congressional District is another focal point, where Republican Derrick Van Orden will face either Rebecca Cooke or Emily Berge. Additionally, the Democratic primary for state treasurer sees Yee Leng Xiong and Dylan Helmenstine vying for the chance to challenge the incumbent Republican. These primaries are crucial as they will determine the candidates for the general election, influencing control over Congress and the Wisconsin Legislature.
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Wisconsin judge rules that paper absentee ballots violate rights of certain disabled people

Wisconsin judge rules that paper absentee ballots violate rights of certain disabled people

A judge has ruled that absentee voting in Wisconsin discriminates against disabled voters, siding with groups that are seeking to force elections officials to allow for electronic ballots
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Shifting left, Democrats see universal health care, taxing the rich as 'essential,' Reuters/Ipsos poll finds

Shifting left, Democrats see universal health care, taxing the rich as 'essential,' Reuters/Ipsos poll finds

WASHINGTON, Aug 4 (Reuters) - Liberal Democrats now make up a clear majority of their party and view universal healthcare, greater abortion access and higher taxes on the rich as essential political positions, underscoring how Democrats have moved leftward in recent years, according to a new Reuters
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U.S. Representative Tom Tiffany Criticizes Madison's Spending on Encampment

U.S. Representative Tom Tiffany Criticizes Madison's Spending on Encampment

U.S. Representative Tom Tiffany has criticized the city of Madison for spending what he describes as 'hundreds of thousands of dollars' to support an illegal encampment. According to Tiffany, the encampment is blocking streets, disrupting businesses, and hindering emergency access. The city has reportedly provided services such as porta-potties and trash collection to sustain the encampment. This criticism comes in the context of Tiffany's campaign for the Republican nomination for Wisconsin governor. The encampment formed following a police shooting incident in Madison, which has sparked public debate and financial scrutiny. Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway has acknowledged the financial toll of the encampment, estimating costs in the hundreds of thousands, primarily due to staff overtime. The city plans to release a final accounting of the costs, which may require a budget amendment.
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The Latest: Michigan awaits outcome of fierce Democratic Senate primary

The Latest: Michigan awaits outcome of fierce Democratic Senate primary

The Democratic Senate race between Rep. Haley Stevens and former public health official Abdul El-Sayed is one of the clearest tests yet of the party’s future
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Elon Musk's Political Spending Raises Concerns Ahead of Midterm Elections

Elon Musk's Political Spending Raises Concerns Ahead of Midterm Elections

Elon Musk plans to spend between $100 million and $120 million to support Republican candidates in upcoming elections across several states, including Alaska, Iowa, Maine, Michigan, and Ohio. His 'America PAC' will focus on Senate and House races, employing strategies beyond traditional TV advertising, such as door-to-door voter engagement. Musk's involvement in political campaigns has previously backfired, as seen in a Wisconsin Supreme Court race where his support for a candidate led to public backlash. Critics argue that Musk's financial influence poses a threat to democratic processes, potentially swaying elections in favor of candidates aligned with his interests.
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Ben Wikler Advocates for Systemic Reforms to Strengthen American Democracy

Ben Wikler Advocates for Systemic Reforms to Strengthen American Democracy

Ben Wikler, a prominent Democratic organizer and chair of the Wisconsin Democratic Party, is advocating for systemic reforms to strengthen American democracy. In his new book, 'This Is the Plan,' Wikler outlines a strategy to address the dysfunctions in American electioneering and governance, such as money in politics, gerrymandering, and the Electoral College. He emphasizes the need for Democrats to focus on state-level elections to secure governing trifectas in key battleground states, which are crucial for the 2028 presidential election. Wikler's plan also includes advocating for the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact to ensure that the presidency reflects the national popular vote. His approach is rooted in grassroots organizing and aims to empower voters to drive economic, social, and racial justice.
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California ranks low for healthcare affordability, report finds

California ranks low for healthcare affordability, report finds

Healthcare affordability remains a challenge in California, which ranks 39th in the nation despite strong health outcomes, a recent report found.
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Eagle Point Solar Recognized as 2026 Top Solar Contractor Amidst U.S. Solar Industry Growth

Eagle Point Solar Recognized as 2026 Top Solar Contractor Amidst U.S. Solar Industry Growth

Eagle Point Solar Recognized as 2026 Top Solar Contractor Amidst U.S. Solar Industry Growth
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AP Decision Notes: What to expect in Michigan’s state primary

AP Decision Notes: What to expect in Michigan’s state primary

Michigan voters will decide a competitive Democratic U.S. Senate primary Tuesday in a contest that will have major implications for control of the chamber next year