Prof. Aaron Weinschenk quoted in investigative article addressing Wisconsin congressional race

The Badger Project, a nonprofit investigative journal in Wisconsin, recently published the article “Trump, Ted Cruz, Uihliens wade into crowded NE Wisconsin congressional race” yesterday. Professor Aaron Weinschenk gives his thoughts in the piece:

“Prof. Aaron Weinschenk, chair of the UW-Green Bay political science department, said Wied’s “outsider” status might help him win the nomination, along with the “information cue” of the former and possibly future president’s endorsement. But that knife can slice both ways.

“Trump-backed candidates tend to get a slight boost in primaries, although they get a slight punishment in general elections, so it may be harmful later on in the process,” Weinschenk wrote in an email. “Here in the district, we are seeing a fair amount of TV advertisements already. I’ve seen Weid ads, Roth ads, and some ads from outside groups too, which is usually a sign of a competitive race.”

Additionally, Prof. Weinschenk wrote:

“Winning in the Republican-leaning district will be “an uphill battle,” Weinschenk wrote.

A major wild card is the earthquake at the top of the Democratic ticket, with Vice President Kamala Harris becoming the presidential candidate so late in the campaign.

Weinschenk noted political science research has suggested that presidential candidates can impact down-ballot races, like those for Congress, if they excite voters and increase turnout.

And of course the issues matter too. Abortion is likely to be a major factor in the race for president and for the 8th, Weinschenk said. Harris is likely to play up the issue nationally, and that could hep Lyerly. Also, Jacque is fiercely opposed to abortion and his victory in the primary could set up a very stark contrast between the two candidates, Weinschenk noted.”

To read the full article, view the link below.

Source: Trump, Ted Cruz, Uihliens wade into crowded NE Wisconsin congressional race