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Democrats, Advocates Highlight Trump's Toll on Wisconsin
Dire affordability crisis, higher prices for food, health care, housing, energy
Published on Feb. 9, 2026
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Democrats in Wisconsin are arguing that policies enacted under the Trump administration, along with Republican control of Congress and the state legislature, have driven up costs for average residents across a range of sectors including groceries, utilities, health care, and housing. A report from the advocacy group Defend America Action cites data and polling to show widespread concern among Wisconsin voters about inflation and the rising cost of living.
Why it matters
The affordability crisis in Wisconsin is a key issue for voters ahead of the 2026 elections, with Democrats hoping to regain control of the state legislature and Congress. The report aims to tie rising costs directly to Trump-era policies, including tax cuts, spending reductions, and changes to programs like Medicaid and food assistance.
The details
The report cites data showing 89% of Wisconsinites surveyed in a Marquette Law School poll were worried about the economy, and 95% were concerned about inflation. It also highlights specific examples, such as a farmer whose health insurance premiums quadrupled after the expiration of ACA subsidies, and estimates that canceling clean energy tax credits will raise utility costs by 13-22%. The report argues that the 'One Big Beautiful Bill Act' passed by Republicans in 2025 will redistribute wealth upward while making it harder for low-income families to meet basic needs.
- The Marquette Law School poll cited in the report was released on October 29, 2025.
- The 'One Big Beautiful Bill Act' was passed by Congress and signed by President Trump in July 2025.
The players
Defend America Action
An advocacy group that opposes the Trump administration.
Sarah Godlewski
Wisconsin Secretary of State.
Dora Drake
Wisconsin state senator representing Milwaukee.
Brad Pfaff
Wisconsin state senator representing Onalaska.
Tony Evers
Governor of Wisconsin.
What they’re saying
“What I am hearing in the district every day is that 'Everything is getting more expensive. I am working more and I am getting less in return.'”
— Dora Drake, Wisconsin state senator (Wisconsin Examiner)
“When we are telling the self-employed and those at small businesses that purchase their health insurance though the marketplace that, you know what, we're not going to do that anymore because of partisan politics, that causes real consternation.”
— Brad Pfaff, Wisconsin state senator (Wisconsin Examiner)
“Affordability is the underlying issue affecting everyone regardless of who you are. Instead of helping people and holding those with the most power accountable, he wants Americans to blame our neighbors and communities of different backgrounds for the reasoning behind their struggles.”
— Dora Drake, Wisconsin state senator (Wisconsin Examiner)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
