Wisconsin - What to watch in 2026

Last updated: May 7, 2026

Wisconsin is one of the most closely divided states in the country, and that division plays a direct role in how women’s rights are shaped. The governor and legislature are controlled by different parties, and in recent years, courts have played a central role in deciding major issues like abortion access and voting rules.

Because many policies are not protected by the state constitution, changes in political control—or new court rulings—can quickly shift how laws are written, interpreted, and enforced.

With control of both the governor’s office and the legislature up for grabs in the 2026 election, the direction of policies like abortion access could change more significantly depending on the outcome.

What’s at stake

Several areas of women’s rights in Wisconsin could shift depending on future political and legal decisions:

• Abortion access.
  After a court ruling allowed abortion services to resume, the state has remained at a standstill, with the governor and legislature unable to agree on new laws. Given this gridlock, future policy direction will depend heavily on who holds office after the November election.
• Voting rules.
  Requirements around voter ID and absentee voting have already changed through court rulings, and future changes will depend on how courts interpret the law and whether new legislation is passed.

Proposed constitutional amendment

Prohibit Government Discrimination or Preferential Treatment Amendment

On November 3, Wisconsin voters will decide on whether to add a new section to the state constitution that would prohibit government entities from discriminating against or granting preferential treatment to individuals or groups based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin.

The amendment would apply to areas such as public employment, public education, public contracting, and other government programs.

• A YES vote would add this restriction to the Wisconsin Constitution.
• A NO vote would leave the constitution unchanged.

Because this proposal would amend the state constitution, it would be more difficult to change or reverse in the future compared to standard legislation.

Supporters say the measure would prevent government favoritism, while critics argue it could limit how public institutions address existing disparities.

Upcoming Elections

Partisan primary (August 11, 2026)

• State legislative races
  Primaries determine which candidates advance to the general election:
  • The Wisconsin State Assembly (all seats)
  • The Wisconsin State Senate (about half the chamber)

General election (November 3, 2026)

• Governor
• Wisconsin State Legislature
  • All State Assembly seats
  • Half of the State Senate seats
• U.S. House of Representatives (8 seats)
• Amendment - Prohibit Government Discrimination or Preferential Treatment Amendment

These offices influence whether new laws advance or stall, how existing laws are enforced or defended, and whether unresolved legal questions gain clarity or remain contested.

Election Resources

The following links provide official information about the ballot, voter registration, and elected representatives:

My Vote Wisconsin - check your registration status, find your polling place, and see what specific races will be on your ballot.
Ballotpedia - Wisconsin Supreme Court elections, 2026
Ballotpedia - Prohibit Government Discrimination or Preferential Treatment Amendment

Locate your district's representatives

• Who Represents Me - An interactive map and locator tool
• State Assembly - The official Assembly member directory
• State Senate - The official Senate directory

WRDI provides election context to support an informed understanding of how laws and policies change. The initiative does not endorse candidates or parties.