Voter turnout in Wisconsin shatters expectations -- here's what it tells us about November

 

MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Voter turnout in Tuesday's election shattered expectations, marking the highest seen across the state in 60 years during a fall partisan primary.

Just over 1.2 million voters cast a ballot statewide, according to unofficial results. The Associated Press reported its highest turnout during a presidential primary since 1964.

The figures are based on two statewide ballot proposals voters rejected that sought to reduce the governor's power when spending federal aid. Democrats invested millions trying to defeat the amendments, a move Democratic Rep. Mark Pocan (WI-02) said paid off.

"They thought by putting referendums on a lower turnout election it was a better way," Pocan said. "I think that miscalculation clearly misfired for them."

Voter turnout in Milwaukee County was 32%, lower than August 2022 midterm when turnout was much higher due to a competitive Republican primary for governor and Democratic Senate seat.

Madison recorded 45% turnout, the highest seen in at least 40 years, according to city officials.

While the numbers suggest Democrats have enthusiasm on their side heading into November, some lawmakers urged caution.

"Wisconsin is always a swing state, it's on a knife's edge," said Sen. Kelda Roys (D-Madison). "I don't think anyone should be feeling overconfident that they're going to run away with this."

Madison and Milwaukee, two Democratic strongholds, have played a major role in helping elect Democrats statewide largely because of young voters turning out in significant numbers.

Dane County is also a region Republicans are trying to make inroads in, especially on college campuses.

Republican U.S. Senate candidate Eric Hovde, a multimillionaire businessman who grew up in Madison, believes his campaign could make up some ground.

"Look, do I think I'm going to win the Madison area? No. But do I think I'm going to compete better than Senator Ron Johnson or Tim Michaels was able to in Madison, of course," Hovde said.

Hovde, who's largely funded his campaign, cruised to victory during the partisan party, clearing the way to challenge Democratic incumbent Sen. Tammy Baldwin in November.