MADISON, Wis. — In January, the Wisconsin Legislature will reconvene with Republicans holding the slimmest majorities since they took power in 2011. This shift in dynamics has led to heightened optimism among Democrats, including Governor Tony Evers, concerning the potential for bipartisan cooperation moving forward, particularly in light of the growing budget surplus exceeding $4 billion. The discussions centered around the utilization of these funds are poised to be a significant point of contention for the upcoming two-year budget that will be formulated in 2025. Additionally, speculations regarding Evers’ potential run for a third term in 2026 and the state’s relationship with the forthcoming Trump administration linger in the background.
One notable change in the Legislature is attributed to redistricting mandated by the Wisconsin Supreme Court, resulting in Democrats gaining seats in the Assembly and the Senate. The current Republican majority stands at 54-45 in the Assembly and 18-15 in the Senate, with Democrats holding 10 more seats in the Assembly and four more in the Senate compared to the last session. Democratic leaders, including Assembly Minority Leader Greta Neubauer, have expressed that the alterations in the Capitol atmosphere may foster additional pressure on moderate Republicans to seek common ground with Democrats. “We all realize how crucial it is to collaborate and achieve results,” remarked Republican Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu.
In terms of national politics, Democrats are strategizing ways to counter the expected impacts of the Trump administration, particularly regarding mass deportations. They seek to reinforce the state’s stance against policies perceived as detrimental to rights concerning immigration, abortion, and LGBTQ+ issues. “Our concerns are paramount about what the former and future President Trump might execute, specifically regarding deportation and immigration,” articulated Senate Democratic Minority Leader Dianne Hesselbein.
Republicans have a clear agenda focused on tax reductions, having previously passed a substantial tax cut of $3.5 billion, which was notably reduced by Evers to $175 million after a veto. With another substantial surplus, Republicans aim to reintroduce tax cuts aimed at providing relief to struggling families, with LeMahieu emphasizing a desire for a $2 billion cut. Although Democrats are not against tax reductions, they advocate for strategies that chiefly benefit middle- and lower-income families rather than wealthier individuals or corporations.
In the area of education, state superintendent Jill Underly’s proposal for over $4 billion in K-12 school funding is expected to face considerable challenges in gaining legislative support. Both parties have tentatively expressed skepticism regarding the feasibility of such a substantial investment. LeMahieu affirmed, “There is no way we will be disbursing $4 billion on education,” reflecting the cautious approach shared by both sides concerning educational funding.
Additionally, the University of Wisconsin system, facing financial constraints, has requested $855 million in fresh funding aimed at preventing tuition hikes, supporting pay increases, and maintaining two-year branch campuses amid stagnant state support. While Evers has promised to consider this request, Republican officials have indicated resistance to approving such a significant amount, stressing the need for a reevaluation of budgetary allocations in light of declining enrollment figures.
Lastly, ongoing discussions among Democrats regarding health care expansion and affordability, including support for new mothers and prescription costs, are expected to remain prominent. Both parties are committed to addressing affordable housing issues and the future of the state’s land stewardship program, which has been embroiled in controversy due to funding disputes. Moreover, Democrats are intent on reviving discussions surrounding the legalization of medical marijuana, an initiative that has seen bipartisan support but ultimately failed to advance previously. However, LeMahieu predicted that the reduced Republican majority could pose challenges for this initiative, with some members firmly opposed.