Wisconsin, a decisive battleground in every US presidential election

General profile

Wisconsin, a Midwestern state, is often considered a political battleground with a nearly evenly split electorate. The state’s population is primarily White, with significant Black, Asian and Hispanic communities. As of recent data, approximately 80 per cent of Wisconsin’s population is White, with Black residents making up about 6 per cent and Asian Americans and Hispanics each constituting about 3 per cent of the population. Urban areas like Milwaukee and Madison have larger populations of minority voters while rural regions remain predominantly White.

Voter demographics and trends

The state has shown a split between rural and urban voting patterns with rural areas leaning Republican and cities leaning Democratic. Wisconsin’s voters tend to focus on key issues such as the economy, healthcare and education, and often prioritise this over party loyalty.

More from United States Of America

From father's advice to pastor's call: How Charlie Kirk's shooter Tyler Robinson was turned in to police Charlie Kirk: Killer still at large, motive uncertain; FBI releases photo with $100,000 reward

Voting history

Wisconsin has flipped between Democratic and Republican candidates in past elections, reflecting its swing state status. Historically, since 1988, the state has leaned Democratic, voting for Bill Clinton and Barack Obama. However, in 2016, Wisconsin surprised many by voting for Donald Trump, a Republican, by a narrow margin, only to flip back to Democratic candidate Joe Biden in 2020.

Swing state importance

Wisconsin’s role as a swing state makes it crucial in presidential elections. Its 10 electoral votes can be decisive and the state often mirrors national voting trends, which means candidates invest heavily in campaign efforts there. Its unpredictability keeps it at the centre of attention every election cycle.

Impact Shorts

More Shorts

As Trump weaponises tariff, Fed sees a bigger worry: Not jobs, but rising prices in America

Despite a backdown deal, Trump deploys hundreds more National Guard troops in Washington DC

Presidential contributions

Although Wisconsin has not produced a US president, it gave the country Robert M La Follette, a third-party candidate in the 1924 election who won the state with over 53 per cent of the vote.

Memorable elections

The 2016 presidential election stands out as particularly memorable, when Wisconsin helped Donald Trump secure the presidency with a narrow victory. This shift broke its previous Democratic voting streak and highlighted the state’s critical swing status​.