Wisconsin - What to watch in 2026

Last updated: July, 2026

Wisconsin remains one of the country's most closely divided states, and where the state goes next will depend largely on the outcome of the 2026 election. Abortion remains legal following recent court rulings, but state leaders continue to disagree over reproductive rights, voting rules, education, and other issues affecting women.

This election will choose a new governor for the first time in eight years, while voters will also decide control of the Legislature. Because many of Wisconsin's laws are not permanently settled, the people elected this year will help shape how women's rights evolve over the next several years.

Voters will also decide whether to add a constitutional amendment prohibiting government discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin. Unlike ordinary laws, constitutional amendments are difficult to change, making this one of the most significant statewide questions on the ballot.

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.
  Wisconsin continues to require photo identification for voting and allows absentee voting under the current state law. Recent legislation updated the state's election-certification process to align with federal requirements, while ongoing court cases and legislative proposals could affect future election administration and representation.
• Political representation.
  Wisconsin adopted new legislative maps in 2024, increasing competition in some districts. A separate challenge to the state's congressional map is now before the Wisconsin Supreme Court. While no changes are expected before the 2026 election, future court decisions could affect how voters are represented in Congress.

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)

General election (November 3, 2026)

• Governor
• Attorney General
• 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 which specific races will be on your ballot.
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 organization does not endorse candidates or parties.