Wisconsin Progress will host a Legislative Candidate Cohort designed specifically for candidates running for the Wisconsin State Assembly and State Senate. This program will feature monthly virtual trainings focused on deepening candidates’ understanding of the key policy issues, priorities, and values shaping Wisconsin’s progressive movement. Participation in the cohort is reserved for candidates seeking an endorsement from Wisconsin Progress and who are in good standing with the organization.

Through this training series, candidates will build a strong foundation in critical policy areas affecting communities across Wisconsin—such as public education, healthcare, economic security, and union rights—while also exploring the broader political and legislative context in which these issues operate. The program will emphasize how policy decisions affect constituents and how state legislators can effectively advance meaningful change.

The cohort will prioritize peer-to-peer learning, creating space for candidates to engage in thoughtful discussion, reflect on how these issues show up in their own districts, and learn from one another’s perspectives and lived experiences. Participants will also connect with Wisconsin Progress Advisory Council members, policy experts, and issue advocates who will provide insight, context, and real-world expertise throughout the program.

In addition, candidates will receive curated policy briefings, background materials, and resource guides to support their ongoing learning. These materials are designed to serve as a reference library that candidates can draw from as they deepen their understanding of key issues and prepare for legislative service.

Overall, the Legislative Candidate Cohort is designed to equip progressive candidates with the policy knowledge, issue fluency, and relationships needed to lead effectively, engage thoughtfully with constituents, and advance a strong progressive agenda in Wisconsin.

By participating in the Legislative Candidate Cohort, candidates will:

1. Develop a foundational understanding of key progressive policy priorities in Wisconsin, including the political and policy landscape shaping legislative races across the state.

2. Strengthen their ability to communicate progressive issues and policy solutions to voters, translating complex policy topics into clear and compelling campaign messaging.

3. Build relationships with fellow legislative candidates, creating opportunities for peer-to-peer learning, shared problem-solving, and collaborative strategy development.

4. Engage with Wisconsin Progress Advisory Council members and issue experts, gaining insights and guidance on policy, messaging, and navigating legislative campaigns.
   Access and utilize training materials and campaign resources, including slide decks and reference materials that support continued learning and campaign preparation throughout the election cycle.

5. Increase confidence in advocating for progressive priorities, equipping candidates with the knowledge and support network needed to run competitive campaigns and effectively represent their communities.

*All sessions will be hosted monthly via Zoom. A separate registration link will be sent for each month.

Monthly Themes (specific dates TBA):

June: Candidate Safety with Democracy Security Project

July: Conservation Policy with Wisconsin Conservation Voters

August: Union Rights and Organizing Theory

September: School Policy with WEAC

October: LGBTQ+ Rights and Transgender Legislation