MADISON— Amid a climate often dominated by partisan gridlock, Main Street Action PAC secured five out of six races for small-business-friendly candidates in last night’s Wisconsin election. Through extensive grassroots organizing and voter outreach, the coalition of small business owners successfully amplified Main Street values, proving that even in a divided political environment, small businesses can make their voices heard.
“With the Main Street Action PAC, Wisconsin’s small business owners held elected officials accountable across the state. This is only the beginning. Our members are ready for the next legislative session, and we expect bipartisan cooperation on policies that support small businesses and the communities they serve,” said Richard Trent, Executive Director of Main Street Alliance and Main Street Action PAC.
Main Street Action PAC’s efforts included 40,385 calls, 170,516 mail pieces, and digital ads generating 8.4 million Views, all aimed at connecting with persuadable voters in Assembly Districts 51, 96, and 13, and Senate Districts 14, 18, and 30. These targeted efforts helped secure five key victories: Watch an example of these high performing ads here.
Tara Johnson defeated Loren Oldenburg (51-49)
Robyn Vining won over Tom Michalski (57-42)
Sarah Keyeski triumphed against Joan Ballweg (51-49)
Jamie Wall edged out Jim Rafter (52-47)
Kristin Alfheim prevailed over Anthony Phillips (52-48)
Of particular note, in Senate District 14, MSA’s dedicated outreach efforts moved crucial voters, securing a key victory for Wisconsin’s small business community and contributing to a more representative state legislature after years of partisan control.
In preparation for this election, Main Street Alliance members hosted state legislative roundtables across Wisconsin, including in Viroqua, Mt. Horeb, Deforest, Wauwatosa, Appleton, and Green Bay. These sessions, attended by over 160 small business owners, community members, and partners, engaged candidates directly on issues impacting small businesses, with support from organizations like 9 to 5 Wisconsin, the Appleton Chapter of the National Organization for Women, and the Wisconsin Farmers Union.
These grassroots engagements set the stage for continued advocacy in the upcoming state budget process. Main Street Alliance members are prepared to fight for pro-small-business policies such as expanding BadgerCare, implementing paid family and medical leave, and fully funding the Child Care Counts program.
Looking to the future, Trent shared the PAC’s commitment to expanding its reach:
“Next year, we’ll bring this movement to other states, starting with Virginia. If you’re a small business owner tired of feeling sidelined by politics, join us.”
Chef Dan Jacobs, Top Chef Contestant and owner of Dan Dan MKE, also shared his perspective: “As a longtime leader with the Main Street Alliance, I know how challenging it is to make our voices heard on issues like healthcare, childcare, and capital access. With these wins, we have the momentum to create lasting change for all of Wisconsin’s small businesses, not just the well-connected.”
Through the dedication of Wisconsin’s small business community, Main Street Action PAC has shown that even in a polarized political landscape, small business owners can drive meaningful change. As Main Street Alliance continues to build coalitions, we will ensure that small businesses remain at the forefront of economic policymaking across the nation.
