WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — On Sunday, Ben Wikler, the chair of the Wisconsin Democratic Party, announced his candidacy to lead the national Democratic Party following an election that saw Donald Trump and Republicans regain power in Washington.
Wikler emphasized the successful groundwork laid in Wisconsin, stating, “We’ve established a permanent campaign.” He noted the importance of year-round organization and communication across all areas of the state, from rural to urban and across politically diverse regions.
As the Democratic Party grapples with the loss of control over the White House, Senate, and House, there is a pressing need for new leadership to address pressing national issues, particularly with the uncertainty of another four years under Trump.
Wikler is not the only one running for the top position in the Democratic National Committee (DNC). Other candidates include Ken Martin, who chairs the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party and serves as a vice chair of the national party, along with former Maryland governor and current Social Security administrator Martin O’Malley. The DNC is set to select its new leader in February, a decision that will reflect the party’s strategy in the face of a prolonged Trump presidency.
Elected as state chair in 2019, Wikler refers to his experience helping Democrats maintain influence in Wisconsin, which he suggests has fared better politically than some other battleground states in the lead-up to the 2024 elections. He highlighted key victories during his leadership, including the successful reelection of Governor Tony Evers and the flipping of Wisconsin’s Supreme Court majority. Notably, this year saw the return of Senator Tammy Baldwin for a third term, along with victories in 14 state legislative seats, positioning Democrats favorably for future elections.
“What has made a difference in Wisconsin can make a difference everywhere,” he asserted.
At 43, Wikler has previously held noteworthy roles, including Washington director for the progressive organization MoveOn.org and campaign director for Avaaz, a global advocacy group focused on critical issues like poverty, climate change, and human rights.
On CNN’s “Inside Politics Sunday,” Wikler addressed the importance of demonstrating to Americans that Democrats are aligned with their interests, stating, “We need to show who Republicans are for. If we don’t do that, then we’re going to lose.”
