WisDems: Updated: RPW breaks state law by failing to file campaign finance report, WisDems chair responds

February 20, 2026 - 23:00

MADISON, Wis. — An official ethics complaint has been filed against the Republican Party of Wisconsin (RPW) for an alleged clear violation of state campaign finance law. The complaint centers on the party's failure to file a mandatory Pre-Primary campaign finance report.

State statutes require any political committee that allocates resources, including time or money, toward an election to file detailed financial disclosures ahead of the primary. The complaint alleges the RPW engaged in election-related activities but did not submit the corresponding report, which would detail contributions and expenditures.

In response to the filing, the chair of the Wisconsin Democratic Party issued a statement condemning the lapse. "Transparency is the cornerstone of our democracy," the chair said. "When a major political party simply ignores the law, it undermines public trust. Voters have a right to know who is funding campaigns and how that money is being spent, especially before they cast their ballots."

The complaint now moves to the state's ethics commission for review. If the commission finds the complaint has merit, it could launch a formal investigation. Potential consequences for violations can include substantial civil forfeitures. The incident has ignited a sharp political debate regarding accountability and adherence to election laws in a key battleground state.