CONTACT: Maria Langholz (715) 209-6463
Early organizing and people power puts progressive champions on November ballot
MILWAUKEE — Wisconsin Working Families Party congratulates all of the winning candidates in this hard-fought primary election. The politically potent organization made strategic primary endorsements to ensure that the most progressive candidates are on the general election ballot to challenge Republicans and win. The Party provided people power to the campaigns, mobilizing volunteers and members to put boots on the ground and used texting to educate voters about the races and move them to the polls. In Milwaukee races, Working Families Party used paid digital ads to support Earnell Lucas’ sheriff race, along with local state legislative candidate Marisabel Cabrera.
Statewide primary winner are Lieutenant Governor candidate Mandela Barnes, a member of the Wisconsin Working Families Party state board and the Working Families National Committee.
In Milwaukee, Wisconsin Working Families Party was key in the primary victory of Earnell Lucas for Milwaukee County Sheriff. The organization also supported a winning slate of candidates to represent Milwaukee in the Wisconsin State Legislature, including Marisabel Cabrera (District 9, State Assembly), who will not face a Republican opponent in the General election.
“Early organizing and people power wins! Due to early support for our candidates, we’re heading into the November general election with an outstanding slate of progressive leaders who are speaking to voters’ values,” said Marina Dimitrijevic, state director of Wisconsin Working Families Party. “These inspiring champions will move voters to the polls, creating not just a blue wave but a progressive surge. Eight years of Scott Walker has failed Wisconsinites and we’re ready for a change. We’re leading the charge for electing not only Democrats but bold leaders who will unapologetically fight for the many — not just the wealthy, well-connected few.”
Earnell Lucas’ win is particularly notable for overcoming the more than $250,000 Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele put into David Clarke protege Richard Schmidt’s campaign in the final weeks..Once again,Working Families Party turned out supporters to campaign for the true progressive champion and beat the influence of big money in the race.
“Earnell Lucas will serve as the People’s Sheriff and bring much needed healing to our community,” said Dimitrijevic. “Today marks an end to David Clarke’s divisive legacy and allows us to begin a new chapter of reconciliation and reform.”
Wisconsin Working Families Party recruited and supported Randy Bryce for the U.S. House in 1st District. Bryce’s candidacy moved House Speaker Paul Ryan to an early retirement. The Party endorsed Rep. Gwen Moore. The organization also led the Wisconsin’s Choice campaign, which engaged voters statewide in crowded field for the Democratic gubernatorial nominee.
