Senate Democratic Leader Dianne Hesselbein (D-Middleton) released the following statement after Governor Evers’ eighth State of the State Address on February 17, 2026:
“I wholeheartedly agree with Governor Evers: There is more work to be done and the Legislature should keep working — not go home after another meeting or two – on the issues that matter most to the people we are elected to serve.
Democrats have introduced bills – very few of which have even gotten a hearing — that would lower costs, improve lives, invest in our public schools and world-class Universities, lower property taxes, ensure Wisconsinites get the health care they need, support our veterans, make our communities safer, and protect our land, water, and air.
Beyond that important call to action, Governor Evers rightfully listed many of the successes Democrats have won on behalf of Wisconsinites. And a few of the bi-partisan wins as well. He mentioned the chaos and destructive policies the Trump Administration has unleashed in America and which negatively affect farmers, immigrants, seniors, people with disabilities, and communities all across Wisconsin.
I call on my Republican colleagues to work with me and Democrats in the legislature. Let’s come to the table, stop playing politics with peoples’ lives and our natural resources, and stand up to the unlawful and reckless Trump agenda. Let’s show Wisconsin and the world we have the ability and the will to work together to make this great State a place where everyone can thrive.”
