‘What worked in Wisconsin can work nationwide’: Ben Wikler joins DNC chair race after 2024 defeat

As the Democratic Party works to regroup after the US presidential election results, Wisconsin Democratic Party Chair Ben Wikler announced his candidacy for Democratic National Committee (DNC) chair on Sunday.
Wikler aims to lead the national party after Republicans and Donald Trump won the 2024 election. The DNC will elect its new leader in February. This election will indicate the party’s direction during the next four years of Trump’s presidency.
“In Wisconsin, we’ve built a permanent campaign,” Wikler said. “We organize and communicate year-round in every corner of the state — rural, suburban, urban, red, blue and purple areas alike.”
Wikler recalled his experience leading Wisconsin Democrats. He noted the party flipped the state Supreme Court majority and re-elected democrat leader and governor Tony Evers during his tenure. Senator Tammy Baldwin won a third term, and Democrats gained 14 state legislative seats, potentially leading to majorities in both chambers by 2026. Wikler believes Wisconsin’s success can be replicated on a national level.
“What has made a difference in Wisconsin can made a difference everywhere,” Wikler said.
Before leading the Wisconsin Democratic Party, the 43-year-old Wikler worked for MoveOn.org and Avaaz. He emphasised the need for Democrats to connect with Americans.
“Democrats need to show Americans that we’re on their side and show who Republicans are for. If we don’t do that, then we’re going to lose,” Wikler told CNN’s “Inside Politics Sunday.”
Other announced candidates include Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party chair Ken Martin, who is also a DNC vice chair, and former Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley.