Wisconsin Spring Election Voter's Guide

Key races and referendums for the 2026 Wisconsin spring election

Apr. 6, 2026 at 7:50pm

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A serene, photorealistic painting of a lone ballot box sitting on a wooden table, with warm sunlight streaming in through a window and casting deep shadows across the scene, capturing the quiet contemplation of the democratic process.As Wisconsin voters prepare to head to the polls, a sense of civic duty and democratic tradition hangs in the air.Port Washington Today

Another spring election is upon us in Southeast Wisconsin, and WTMJ is providing voters with important information before they head to the ballot box on April 7. The election features contested races for Wisconsin Supreme Court, several mayoral seats, and a referendum on tax incremental financing districts in Port Washington.

Why it matters

Spring elections in Wisconsin often see lower voter turnout than fall elections, making it crucial for residents to be informed on the key races and issues on their local ballots. The outcome of these elections will impact the political balance of power in the state, as well as influence important local decisions around development, school funding, and more.

The details

The only race appearing on every Wisconsin resident's ballot will determine whether Judge Maria Lazar or Judge Chris Taylor will fill the state Supreme Court seat vacated by the retiring Justice Rebecca Bradley. Several communities in Waukesha County also have contested mayoral races, including the City of Waukesha, Brookfield, Delafield, Muskego, and Oconomowoc. Voters in the City of Port Washington will see a referendum on limiting the city's ability to create large tax incremental financing districts without voter approval. The Lake Country School District is also asking voters to approve a four-year, $800,000 per year operational referendum.

  • Early in-person absentee voting began on March 24, 2026.
  • The election will be held on April 7, 2026, with polls open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

The players

Judge Maria Lazar

A candidate for the Wisconsin Supreme Court seat vacated by the retiring Justice Rebecca Bradley.

Judge Chris Taylor

A candidate for the Wisconsin Supreme Court seat vacated by the retiring Justice Rebecca Bradley.

Scott Allen

A candidate for mayor of the City of Waukesha, favored by conservatives.

Alicia Halvensleben

A candidate for mayor of the City of Waukesha, supported by the Waukesha County Democratic Party.

Judge Gordon Leech

The incumbent candidate for the Washington County Circuit Court, Branch 2.

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What’s next

As results come in on April 7, WTMJ will share updates on races of note on-air, online, and on-demand.

The takeaway

This spring election in Wisconsin features key races and referendums that will impact the political landscape, local development decisions, and school funding. It's crucial for residents to be informed and engaged in these local elections, which often see lower voter turnout than statewide or national races.