After four months on the road, thousands of miles traveled, and statewide polling, the Institute for Reforming Government is proud to release our newest community engagement report: Wisconsin Speaks: Listening, Learning, Leading.
What We Found
Affordability dominates.
Inflation, groceries, housing, child care, and health care are top-of-mind. Nearly 4 in 10 voters say cost of living is their #1 voting issue.
Inflation unites voters across parties.
Inflation ranked as the top issue for:
• 35% of Republicans
• 49% of Independents
• 40% of Democrats
Health care, taxes, and housing drive household pressure.
More than 60% of voters say these costs will factor into their vote.
K–12 education concerns are widespread but overlooked.
Only 5% named education as their top issue for 2026, despite ongoing challenges.
How We Did It
From May through September 2025, IRG hosted listening sessions across Wisconsin, from Milwaukee’s north side to De Pere, Wausau, Hayward, Brillion, Beloit, and beyond.
We followed one simple rule: listen.
No policy pitches. No talking points. Just open conversations about kitchen-table issues.
These insights were paired with:
• Written participant surveys
• An online survey of 100 center-right activists and business leaders
• A statewide poll of 800 registered voters conducted by RMG Research (±3.5% margin of error)
The Quotes
“This report reflects what Wisconsinites themselves say are the most pressing issues facing their families and communities. We hope it serves as a practical resource for policymakers, business leaders, and community groups.”
— Courtney Gustafson, Director of External Affairs
“As we approach the 2026 election cycle, the data is unmistakable: affordability is the defining issue for Wisconsin families. Candidates who take this seriously will earn voters’ trust.”
— CJ Szafir, CEO
What’s Next
We’re building on this momentum by:
• Conducting quarterly polling on kitchen-table issues
• Hosting new listening sessions, including with disengaged voters
• Working with community partners through the IRG Action Fund to turn insight into action
