In western Wisconsin’s third congressional district, Democratic candidate Rebecca Cooke is in a competitive race against incumbent Republican Rep. Derrick Van Orden. A recent poll shows Cooke leading with 49% to Van Orden’s 48%, although the margin is within the poll’s 4.9% margin of error.
Cooke emphasizes her community ties and relatability, campaigning while working as a waitress at a farm-to-table restaurant.
She has an 11-point lead on abortion issues and a 6-point lead in being perceived as relatable.
Cooke, who previously lost a bid for the same seat in 2022, highlights her local connections, including her role in founding a non-profit supporting women entrepreneurs.
In contrast, Van Orden, a former Navy SEAL, has faced criticism for his controversial behavior and perceived bullying. He won his seat in 2022 with 51.8% of the vote after moderate Democrat Ron Kind’s retirement.
The Cook Political Report rates the race as lean Republican, and with Democrats needing to flip only a few seats to gain control of the House, Cooke’s campaign is drawing attention.
Republicans, meanwhile, have attacked her as a partisan activist, but Cooke asserts her community-focused approach and commitment to local issues.