In a momentous turn of events, Democrats nationwide are buoyed by what they perceive as a significant political victory over President Donald Trump. This optimism stems from Democratic-backed Judge Susan Crawford’s decisive 10-point triumph over Trump’s and Elon Musk’s preferred candidate for the Wisconsin state Supreme Court.
Beyond Wisconsin, Democrats have spotlighted several other pivotal moments that hint at a burgeoning comeback. New Jersey Senator Cory Booker’s unprecedented 25-hour Senate speech is seen as a galvanizing force for disheartened voters. Additionally, a coalition of congressional Democrats, alongside some House Republicans, thwarted a procedural rule that threatened a proposal permitting new congressional parents to vote by proxy.
Such victories have offered a reprieve for Democratic leaders, validating their tactics of critiquing Trump’s ties with Musk and other wealthy elites. Despite celebrations, certain officials caution against interpreting these victories as definitive, reminding everyone that these are isolated occurrences in a series of low-turnout elections, with polls still indicating a widespread party unpopularity among crucial voter demographics.
The newly elected Democratic National Committee Chair, Ken Martin, reflected, “Elon Musk and Donald Trump are on the ropes. We’re just getting started.” This spirit is bolstered by crucial success in Wisconsin—a state that proved challenging post-Trump’s electoral win which notably shifted working-class and minority votes.
With recent initiatives to curtail federal governance and economic restructuring generating frustration among activist bases, Democrats have had minimal success quelling Trump’s assertive agenda. A defeat in Wisconsin would have amplified this struggle, a fact Democrats privately acknowledged.
In the electoral clash, Brad Schimel, the conservative contender for the Wisconsin Supreme Court, faced a substantial defeat against the liberal-supported Crawford. This came months after Trump narrowly claimed Wisconsin in the presidential election.
Even as Republicans clinched victories in Florida’s heavily pro-Trump House districts, these victories are viewed as underwhelming since the candidates notably underperformed compared to Trump’s previous margins.
Kansas Democratic Party Chair Jeanna Repass expressed relief, noting a brighter outlook post-election. In a similar spirit, Wisconsin Representative Mark Pocan warned Republicans of ramifications, should they continue supporting Trump-Musk enacted government cuts. “In swing districts, Republican representatives should either defend their constituents or prepare for the impending political ramifications,” Pocan remarked.
Wisconsin’s 3rd congressional district Democratic candidate, Rebecca Cooke, interpreted the election outcome as a backlash against Trump and Musk’s governance, acknowledging the long road ahead to restore party trust among disenfranchised voters.
The ongoing discourse has reinforced Democrats’ core narrative approaching the 2026 midterms: combating Trump and billionaires prioritizing wealth over the working class. Democratic National Committee talking points highlight an emerging pattern of successes in states like Virginia and Pennsylvania, reflecting an effective message strategy.
Representative Suzan DelBene of Washington echoed these sentiments, emphasizing public discontent with current administrative chaos and its failure to address rising prices and support cuts. She noted Republican apprehension given public outrage over Trump’s and Musk’s vision, primarily centered on wealthy supporters.
Anticipation is also building for planned protests, with thousands expecting to participate in “Hands Off!” demonstrations, critiquing Trump and Musk’s influence. Spearheaded by over 150 political organizations, the upcoming rallies may emerge as the most substantial protest day against the Trump administration so far.
New Jersey’s Cory Booker, who captured widespread attention with his Senate address, plans to engage in various public events, signaling a sustained Democratic effort to mobilize the base. His office indicates overwhelming public support post-speech, with a massive engagement and digital reach.
With the outcome of recent elections and looming large-scale protests, Democrats are cautiously optimistic, seeking to sustain and capitalize on this momentum moving forward.