Democratic Primary Victory Sets Stage for Wisconsin Congressional Rematch

Rebecca Cooke, a former waitress, small-business owner, and nonprofit founder, secured a victory in Wisconsin’s 3rd Congressional District Democratic primary. This win positions her for a rematch against Republican Rep. Derrick Van Orden.

Raised on a dairy farm near Eau Claire, Cooke defeated Emily Berge, former Eau Claire City Council President. This success places Cooke on the ballot for Democrats looking to gain a House seat. Cooke’s journey marks her third attempt after losing the 2022 Democratic primary and then the 2024 general election to Van Orden by roughly 11,000 votes, with Van Orden securing 51.4% to Cooke’s 48.6%.

Rebecca Cooke, candidate for Congress, has emphasized her working-class roots and aims to appeal to a diverse voter base.

Cooke’s campaign emphasizes her working-class background. She has worked on a dairy farm, served as a waitress, founded the Red Letter Grant to support women entrepreneurs, operated a small retail business, and was appointed to the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. board by Democratic Gov. Tony Evers. Her campaign focuses on issues such as affordability, healthcare, and economic challenges in rural areas. Cooke positions herself as a pragmatic Democrat seeking cross-party appeal in the district.

With robust funding and national support, Cooke entered the primary as a favored candidate. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee added her to its “Red to Blue” program, aiming to support candidates in competitive districts. Emily Berge, her opponent in the primary, portrayed herself as a local alternative, arguing against the influence of national party backing and fundraising.

The upcoming general election may revisit questions about Cooke’s finances and political experience. Van Orden’s campaign has requested disclosure of her financial details, set for release after the primary. Republican critiques label her as a political insider, a notion Cooke counters by highlighting her broad experience across business, nonprofit leadership, and political roles.

Van Orden, a retired Navy SEAL and incumbent since 2022, seeks a third term. The district, part of a swing state, has leaned Republican in recent elections. However, Cooke’s narrow 2024 loss and strong fundraising make this race a critical watch for Democrats aiming to regain House control. As the Cook Political Report shifts the race from “lean Republican” to “toss up,” voter interest intensifies.