Ben Wikler, the driving force behind the Wisconsin Democratic Party’s impressive fundraising efforts, has announced his departure from his role in June.
The current Wisconsin state party chair has revealed his intention not to seek reelection in a letter issued on Thursday, citing the need for a break and a desire to explore new avenues to champion the cause of working people.
Transition and Future Plans
In a recent interview with POLITICO, Wikler hinted at the possibility of writing a book and did not rule out the potential of running for political office in the future. He emphasized the strength of Wisconsin’s pro-democracy Supreme Court until 2028, which offers protection against gerrymandering and sets the stage for significant political opportunities in the upcoming years.
Wikler’s decision follows the recent success of Democrats in the state, including the victory of Susan Crawford in the state Supreme Court race. Despite a setback in his own pursuit of the Democratic National Committee chair position, Wikler’s leadership has transformed the Wisconsin Democratic Party into a formidable force, securing victories in the majority of statewide elections.
Legacy and Succession
Since assuming office in 2019, Wikler has elevated the profile and impact of the state party, establishing it as a well-funded entity with a track record of electoral wins. While acknowledging the state’s political landscape, Wikler believes that passing on the leadership reins during a period of growth is opportune.
The Democratic Party of Wisconsin will conduct elections to select Wikler’s successor in mid-June, marking a pivotal moment in the party’s evolution.
