Which Republican can Defeat Baldwin?

[Mister Mets]

Walker's unlikely to go for it. A loss would be embarrassing (see Jerry Brown in 1982.) Paul Ryan's got congressional seniority, so he's unlikely to go for it. Both elections would be nationalized, which may not be what Republicans want in a federal race in the state. If Johnson lost narrowly, he could be strong, but it requires voters kicking out a Democrat for the Republican they just kicked out. That seems like a hurdle.

Rebecca Kleefisch seems qualified, but might be enough of a blank slate. Although she hasn't had to run an office before. A young woman who is familiar with the cameras could be strong.

Sean Duffy may be the best pick. He's a reality star who will have served four terms in Congress in a district Democrats previously held, in addition to a stint as county DA. Congressmen have solid records defeating Democratic incumbents (See Cory Gardner and Tom Cotton.)

Current AG Brad Schimel and previous AG J. B. Van Hollen could also be effective. Both have been elected to statewide office, and have avoided controversies of the Walker administration or Washington Republicans.

Duffy's the first choice, but the party has a strong bench.