Democrats seize full control of Wisconsin government after 16 years

Democrats have taken complete control of Wisconsin's state government for the first time in 16 years. David Crowley defeated Tom Tiffany in the governor's race, while Democrats flipped both the Senate and Assembly from Republican to Democratic majorities.

Crowley led Tiffany 54 to 46 percent with nearly all votes counted. In his victory speech Tuesday night in Milwaukee, Crowley said voters will trust Democrats to lead for the first time since 2010 and that governing the whole state is how they will earn that trust.

“For the first time since 2010, Wisconsin voters will trust us to lead.”

Senate Democrats won all four key races needed for a majority, securing an 18 to 15 advantage when the new session begins in January. Assembly Democrats secured a 53 to 46 majority.

Democrats also won three other statewide races—attorney general, secretary of state, and state treasurer—flipping them from Republican control. Assembly Democratic Leader Greta Neubauer called the victories historic and said the trifecta will end decades of Republican obstruction.

The Democratic gains were boosted by President Donald Trump's falling approval ratings, which also helped the party win majorities in the U.S. House and Senate. Neubauer said people will be counting on Democrats to deliver and that government can be a force for good.

The wins put pressure on the party to respond to voters angry over gas prices, inflation, affordable housing, and the rising cost of living. State governments shape policies on tax rates, abortion rights, school choice, education funding, data center development, and law-enforcement surveillance cameras.