It’s an oft repeated line that elections are marathons, not sprints. But Wisconsin will be racing from election to election these next three months.
First, April 3, is the GOP Presidential Primary election, timed to take place on the same day as races for circuit judges and local offices. This date was established quite some time ago when the Legislature move back the primary date from February. It was widely thought the contest would be well over by the time it was Wisconsin’s turn, but the state is in play and candidates are making their way around the state.
While this date was well known, the dates for recall elections of four state Senators, Governor and Lt. Governor have been the subject of speculation for some time. If all goes according to the proscribed schedule with the proper amount of time allotted after the recall petitions are certified, the next Wisconsin election day will follow in barely a month on May 8.
With at least two announced Democratic candidates vying to replace Gov. Walker, this election will be a statewide primary to determine the challenger. It’s likely that there will be new candidates running to replace the state Senators up for recall as well, forcing a primary election in those districts, also on the Eighth.
Then, less than a month later, on June 5, the big day. After more than a year of contentious politics the state will finally settle the matter-somewhat-by determining who will be governor and what party will control the Senate.
Three months, three elections. Whether or not that really counts as a sprint, it’s sure to be exhausting.
.
