AARP Survey Finds Older Wisconsin Voters Focused on Costs
Older voters in Wisconsin's most competitive congressional districts cite living costs, Social Security, Medicare and taxes as top issues ahead of the Nov. 3 midterm election.
Updated on Nov. 2, 2026 in Eldercare
Live Poll
Would a candidate's plan to protect Social Security make you more likely to vote for them?
AARP Wisconsin surveyed voters in the state's most competitive congressional districts ahead of the Nov. 3 midterm election. Respondents named rising living costs, Social Security, Medicare and taxes as their top concerns.
Why it matters
With about 21% of voters 50 and older still persuadable at the time of the poll, the group could influence outcomes in close races. Family caregiving and Social Security protections emerged as issues that would shift candidate support.
AARP Wisconsin's survey covered voters in the state's most competitive congressional districts, with 85% of respondents saying they are more likely to back a candidate who would protect Social Security from cuts. Half of older voters surveyed reported they are or have taken on a family caregiver role, though the survey does not indicate how that figure compares to prior periods.
The players
AARP Wisconsin
The state chapter of AARP, the nonprofit advocacy organization focused on issues affecting adults over 50, which conducted the voter survey.
Rebecca Cooke
Democratic candidate in Wisconsin's 3rd Congressional District who has proposed repealing taxes on Social Security benefits.
Derrick Van Orden
Republican U.S. representative from Wisconsin's 3rd District who voted for President Donald Trump's tax-and-spending law.
The details
Democratic candidate Rebecca Cooke has proposed repealing taxes on Social Security benefits and expanding Medicare coverage. Rep. Derrick Van Orden, R-Wis., voted for President Donald Trump's tax-and-spending law, and the 3rd District race pits the two against each other.
Timeline
Nov. 3: Wisconsin midterm election voting day
Season Trajectory
The race in Wisconsin's 3rd District is framed around Social Security and taxes, the same issues that divided candidates over Trump's tax-and-spending law. Older voters are emerging as a persuadable bloc whose concerns could shape how competitive districts approach the 2026 midterms.
Wisconsin families providing unpaid care to older relatives could see tax credits become a campaign issue as candidates respond to caregiver demands. Older voters weighing Social Security and Medicare changes will face clear choices at the ballot box on Nov. 3.
The takeaway
Older voters in Wisconsin's competitive districts are weighing Social Security, Medicare and caregiving costs closely. Checking where candidates stand on these specific policies before Election Day can clarify the choices on the ballot.
What happens next
Wisconsin voters head to the polls on Nov. 3, when the outcome of the competitive congressional races will be decided.
Further reading
For more on the care issues shaping this race, explore Eldercare coverage on Wisconsin.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WKMJ - Houghton.
Live Poll
Would a candidate's plan to protect Social Security make you more likely to vote for them?
