This is the place to go for quick visual postings of important events about and around the CoCo Dems.

A plain-language summary of an update from Wisconsin Fair Maps Coalition volunteer organizer Nicole Gabrail on the coalition’s plan for an Independent Redistricting Commission (IRC) to bust up gerrymandered districts in Wisconsin. Article and video derived from her March 14, 2026 presentation at the CoCo Dems monthly meeting.

What was originally supposed to be one piece in the Watertown High School Wind Symphony’s spring concert became something much bigger: A community statement about art, inclusion, and the refusal to let fear-driven politics silence students’ work. Watch the video and read our article about the issue by reading more.

At a recent meeting with a small group of CoCo Dem members, Nick Oestreich, Regional Organizing Coordinator from the Democratic Party of Wisconsin laid out a clear challenge for all of us: if we want to win, we have to get better at talking with people who are still reachable. That means moving beyond frustration and into action. Nick’s message was practical and energizing: stop wasting precious time trying to “win” arguments with the loudest extremists, and focus instead on the voters we can actually move—independents, disaffected Republicans, inconsistent Democrats, and people in our own networks.

On Saturday, May 23 we’re calling on members, volunteers, and supporters to join us as we head into Columbia County communities to help Democratic candidates collect the nomination signatures they need to get on the ballot. This is where campaign season truly begins: With conversations at the door, energy in our neighborhoods, and people coming together to build something bigger than themselves.

Wisconsin gubernatorial candidate Missy Hughes was not able to attend the April 11 CoCo Dems Candidate Forum because of a death in the family. She visited the organization's headquarters on May 14, 2026 to participate in a town hall type of presentation.

This gave CoCo Dem members an opportunity to hear Hughes' ideas and to ask her questions. CoCo Dems 1st Vice Chair Ann Groves-Lloyd Introduced Hughes and 2nd Vice Chair Mark Stover moderated the event.

The CoCo Dems will be hosting a town hall with Q&A period for Missy Hughes, Democratic gubernatorial candidate for WI on Thursday, May 14 from 2 to 3:30 pm at the organization’s headquarters at 315 DeWitt St, Portage, WI.

From The Lincoln Project and Rick Wilson’s Against All Enemies, we present Wilson’s “The elephant in the room.” From one of the stalwart defenders of democracy and anti-Trump crusaders, Wilson’s sometimes coarse language reveals one of the greatest minds working to unseat Trump and preserve our democracy. In this recent episode that means stern words from Wilson for the Democrats along with sound strategies for them from this long-time political insider.

Speaking to members of the Democratic Party of Columbia County Wisconsin at its May 9 monthly meeting, Democratic State Treasurer candidate Dylan Helmenstine centered his remarks on a simple theme: Wisconsin needs a state government that is transparent, dependable, and focused on helping local communities thrive.

Here is the photo gallery from the April 25 CoCo Dems Annual Dinner. Photos by Gary Peroutka and Bill Lubing. Enjoy!

Senator Erin P. Murphy delivered a powerful, deeply personal call to action grounded in democracy, courage, and community. Speaking as a Wisconsin native and Minnesota Majority Leader, she connected her family roots, nursing career, and political journey to the values that shape Democratic organizing: standing up for people, doing the hard work, and believing change is possible.

Here is the listing and information about CoCo Dems events this month and beyond (at least what we’re aware of).

The deadlines are approaching to register. Help elect democratic lawmakers and shape the positions and future of the party by becoming a delegate to the Sixth Congressional District and/or the Wisconsin Democratic Party State Convention.

Have you heard folks talking about getting Neighborhood Action Teams (NAT) started around the county? Maybe at one of the recent monthly membership meetings? Let me tell you about the NAT running in Columbus. I hope you’ll want to get something started near you.

The U.S. Supreme Court has recently issued pivotal rulings that significantly alter the landscape of the Voting Rights Act (VRA), moving from a period of protection to new, stricter interpretations of racial representation.

April was volunteer appreciation month. We give them thanks here.

The Executive Committee has been diligently working to update the party Constitution and has arrived at a proposed revision posted here (and elsewhere on the website). The first reading and discussion of the changes will take place on at the May 9, 2026 2026 membership meeting. Please do your best to review ahead of time so that the discussion can be as productive as possible.

Our volunteer spotlight for May falls on Bill Lubing. Busy with the CoCo Dems Update blog and other activities, you’ll usually see him with a camera in one hand and one of Mary Ellen’s brownies in the other.

If you are unacquainted with Rick Wilson of the Lincoln Project, and specifically his “Elephant in the Room” podcasts, this might be a good place to meet him.

The MAGA meltdown is happening in real time—and it’s not subtle. What started as a fringe influencer ecosystem exploded into a full-blown political machine…and now it’s turning on itself.

This podcast is produced by The Lincoln Project. and was released on April 24, 2026. © 2026 The Lincoln Project – All Rights Reserved

Here’s the last message to encourage you to attend our April 25 Annual Dinner and Fundraiser. It’s going to be fantastic!