In a surprising twist in the 2024 presidential race, the Badger Values PAC, a super PAC with ties to Republican interests, is pouring funds into promoting Green Party candidate Jill Stein in Wisconsin. This development raises eyebrows as the state is a crucial battleground, with the potential to sway the outcome between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. With third-party candidates like Stein, Robert F. Kennedy, and Cornel West on the ballot, the dynamics of the election are becoming increasingly complex.
The Stakes in Wisconsin
Wisconsin has a history of razor-thin margins in presidential elections, with the last two contests decided by approximately 20,000 votes. This year, the stakes are particularly high. A recent Marquette University Law School poll indicates a neck-and-neck race, with Harris at 48% and Trump at 47% among likely voters.
- Key Points:
- Wisconsin is a pivotal battleground state.
- Recent polls show a tight race between Harris and Trump.
- Third-party candidates could play a significant role in the election outcome.
The presence of third-party candidates is not just a footnote; it could be a game changer. Stein’s candidacy, in particular, is viewed as a potential spoiler for Harris, especially after the state Supreme Court allowed her to remain on the ballot despite challenges from Democrats. Meanwhile, Kennedy’s situation adds another layer of intrigue, as he seeks to remove his name from the ballot after endorsing Trump.
Badger Values PAC: A Closer Look
The Badger Values PAC has been active in Wisconsin politics, previously spending over $400,000 during the 2022 attorney general race. This year, they have ramped up their efforts, spending nearly $1 million on federal elections, with about $307,000 specifically allocated to support Stein.
- Recent Expenditures:
- Total spent by Badger Values PAC: $982,900
- Amount spent on Jill Stein: $307,000
- Previous spending in 2022: $407,483
Les Williamson, the PAC’s treasurer, has a history of working with Republican groups, including the National Republican Senatorial Committee. His involvement raises questions about the motivations behind the PAC’s support for Stein. Are they genuinely interested in environmental issues, as some of their mailers suggest, or is this a strategic move to siphon votes away from Harris?
The Messaging Strategy
Mailers sent out by the Badger Values PAC have been critical of Harris while promoting Stein’s environmental agenda. One mailer boldly states, “As President, JILL STEIN Would End Pollution in Our Great Lakes and Rivers,” contrasting her with Harris, who is accused of neglecting environmental concerns.
- Mailer Highlights:
- Focus on environmental issues.
- Direct attacks on Kamala Harris.
- Encouragement to vote for Stein by November 5th.
This messaging strategy seems designed to resonate with voters who prioritize environmental issues, potentially drawing them away from Harris. The Democratic National Committee (DNC) has responded by launching ads in Wisconsin and other swing states, warning voters that a vote for Stein could inadvertently aid Trump.
DNC’s Response and Implications
The DNC has been quick to dismiss Stein’s chances of winning, labeling her candidacy as a tool for Republicans. DNC Communications Advisor Lis Smith stated, “Republican operatives like Badger Values PAC couldn’t make it any clearer — a vote for Stein is a vote for Trump.” This sentiment underscores the growing concern among Democrats about the impact of third-party candidates in tight races.
- DNC’s Position:
- Stein is unlikely to win.
- Republicans are leveraging her candidacy to benefit Trump.
- Ads launched to counteract Stein’s influence.
As the election approaches, the interplay between these candidates and the strategies employed by various political groups will be crucial. The situation in Wisconsin serves as a microcosm of the broader national landscape, where every vote counts and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
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