Tammy Baldwin Vs. Eric Hovde For U.S. Senate: Election Results

WISCONSIN — In races across the country, Democratic candidates are centering their campaigns on protecting abortion access, while Republicans are heavily focused on inflation, frequently attributing cost-of-living struggles to Democrats in power.

However, the Senate contest between Democratic two-term incumbent Tammy Baldwin and Republican challenger Eric Hovde stood out, as both candidates make broad economic policy their central issue. Each says their approach is ideal for Wisconsin's specific economic concerns.

Patch will provide live vote totals as results come in throughout the night

82% of votes in as of 11:36 p.m.

"Every Wisconsinite deserves a fair chance to succeed and I’m dedicated to making that possible," argues Baldwin, who has garnered significant financial support from the national Democratic Party this election cycle.

"Whether it be lowering prescription drug costs, expanding affordable housing, or boosting opportunities to land a good-paying job, I’m committed to ensuring Wisconsinites can get ahead."

"The most pressing issue facing Wisconsinites is the economy," Hovde told Patch, who received backing from former President Donald Trump before Wisconsin's April primary.

• For full coverage of the election in Wisconsin, go here.

"Inflation is crushing the people of Wisconsin with prices going up on everything from groceries and gas to housing and utilities. As I travel the state and speak with everyday Wisconsities it is clear they are struggling. This record-high inflation was sparked by the failed economic policies of the Biden-Harris administration with Senator Baldwin's support."

READ: WI Patch Candidate Profile: Eric Hovde For U.S. Senate

Who is the most Wisconsin?

As the candidates clash over whose policies are best for Wisconsin, another debate has emerged: who can truly claim the title of "real Wisconsinite"?

Hovde was born and raised in Wisconsin. However, he lives in California at least part-time and is CEO of California-based H Bancorp.

Democrats have made a lot of hay out of Hovde "living large in a $7 million mansion with ocean views" in Laguna Beach, CA. They also note that the Orange County, California Business Journal named Hovde one of the most influential people in all of Orange County three years in a row.

State Democrats even set up a website, "Eric Hovde for California."

Hovde has vigorously contested the allegations throughout his campaign. In January, he even took a polar plunge into Lake Mendota in Madison to demonstrate that he is not a typical Californian but a rugged Wisconsinite.

"So the Dems and Sen. Baldwin keep saying I’m not from Wisconsin, which is a complete joke," he said on video. "Alright Sen. Baldwin, why don’t you get out here in this frozen lake, and let’s really see who’s from Wisconsin."

On Tuesday, the constant barrage of campaign commercials will mercifully end, and Wisconsinites can decide who of the two major Senate candidates are "Wisconsin" enough to represent them in the U.S.