Politics & Government

Election Preview: Wisconsin U.S. Senate Race

Former Republican Gov. Tommy Thompson is squaring off against Democratic U.S. Rep. Tammy Baldwin in a bid to replace retiring U.S. Sen. Herb Kohl.

Former Wisconsin Gov. Tommy Thompson is taking on Democratic U.S. Rep. Tammy Baldwin for the chance to represent Wisconsin in the U.S. Senate β€” taking the seat now held by Democrat Herb Kohl, who is retiring in January.

The race has drawn national attention and endorsements because Republicans have a shot to wrestle the seat away from Democrats. Depending on outcomes in other states, the November election could help give the GOP control of the Senate.

  • Related: Tammy vs. Tommy: Costly Senate Race Comes Down to the Wire

Although Thompson was leading Baldwin after his August primary election win, the Madison congresswoman has been in the lead in the most recent polls.

Find out what's happening in Brookfieldwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

In its analysis of the race, the nonpartisan RealClearPolitics.com says:

"Baldwin received quite a bump in the polls in the wake of the Democratic convention, and it seems to be sticking. What once looked like a probably GOP pickup is looking more and more like a Democratic hold."

Find out what's happening in Brookfieldwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

U.S. senators serve six-year terms and earn $174,000 per year.

For Patch's complete coverage of the race so far, click here.

Candidate Profiles

  • Democrat Tammy Baldwin
  • Republican Tommy Thompson


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