Hamilton Political Tidbits – December 5, 2025

In this edition of Tidbits, we highlight several key developments at the Capitol and across state government, including discussions among legislative leaders about a potential December extraordinary session, the latest update in the U.S. Senate race as Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes enters a growing primary field, action from the Legislature during its November floor periods, and the announcement of a new CEO to lead the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation.

If you have any questions, please contact a member of the Hamilton Consulting team.

Legislative Leaders Considering December Extraordinary Session

Republican legislative leaders are considering calling an extraordinary session to address the significant increase in state costs tied to recent federal changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), known in Wisconsin as FoodShare. In Wisconsin, an extraordinary session can be called by the Legislature, by the committees on organization or through a joint resolution or joint petition.

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Barnes Joins Crowded Primary Race

Mandela Barnes — a former state representative and the Lieutenant Governor during Governor Evers’ first term (2019–2023), and the Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate in 2022 — has officially entered the 2026 race for governor. It had been speculated for months that Barnes would join the race. 

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Legislature Convenes for November Floor Periods 

Both the Wisconsin State Senate and State Assembly met the week of November 17 to take votes on various bills. It is expected this will be the final general business floor period for 2025.

The Senate came in first during the week, on Tuesday, November 18 and the Assembly convened the following day on Wednesday, November 19. 

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New WEDC CEO Announced 

Gov. Tony Evers announced that he is appointing John W. Miller to serve as secretary and CEO of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, effective December 15, 2025. The position became vacant after former secretary-CEO Missy Hughes resigned earlier this fall to pursue a campaign for governor.

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Legal

Sick of those state Supreme Court campaign ads, Wisconsin? Here’s how other states avoid them

Wisconsin Watch, December 5, 2025

Wisconsin Supreme Court takes up bid to halt ICE detainers in county jails

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, December 3, 2025

Those challenging congressional map as gerrymander want hearing as soon as Dec. 15

WisPolitics, December 3, 2025

Wisconsin Supreme Court elections have drawn an ‘obscene’ amount of spending. Here’s why and what can be done about it.

Wisconsin Watch, December 3, 2025

Lawsuits calling for new Wisconsin congressional map are in the hands of 6 county judges. Now what?

Wisconsin Public Radio, November 27, 2025

Employer & Consumer

Agreement reached: Abbott Labs to purchase Madison’s Exact Sciences in $23 billion deal

Wisconsin State Journal, November 20, 2025

Wisconsin construction, labor leaders say data centers will grow long-term jobs

Wisconsin Public Radio, November 18, 2025

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