Nischke benefits from the largely Republican makeup of the city. In the last Presidential election, Republican straight-ticket voters in the City of Waukesha made up 64% of the straight-ticket ballots cast. Republican US Senate candidate Tim Michels won the City of Waukesha in 2004 54% to 45%.
State Representative Ann Nischke also has the advantage of geography. Her district covers most of the City of Waukesha. Alderman Nelson represents one aldermanic district.
Arguably, Nelson has run the better campaign, and has even demonstrated a willingness to go negative in the closing days of the campaign with his direct mail and telephone calls.
But the race has become so partisan and the two candidates have become so identified with their parties that it would be still be a major upset if Nelson wins. I predict Nischke wins with close to 55% of the vote.
New Berlin: The three incumbent school board members, President Jennifer Eitel and members Keith Heun and Matt Thomas, sweep to an easy victory, setting up a showdown with the teachers union over the proposed 20% health care contribution. Opponents of the current board made a huge mistake in attempting to recall board members last summer. The current board members now have the advantage of a relative consensus in the community and a track record of not going to referendum to raise taxes. Ronald Reagan Elementary School is closer to reality.City of Brookfield: Incumbent Mayor Jeff Speaker should defeat Alderwoman Cindy Kilkenny in this pretty bitter race. When the subject of the campaign becomes mental fitness for office, regardless of how unfair the charge might be, it's pretty tough to win.
