November 4, 2026
Dear Fellow Republicans,
The November 3 election was a difficult day for Republicans, both here in Wisconsin and across the country. There is no denying that. We lost races we had hoped to win, including some that many of us worked tirelessly to support.
As Chairman of the Republican Party of Sauk County, and as the husband of a candidate who came up short, I understand that disappointment personally.
But I want to remind everyone of something important: We have been here before, and history tells us that political setbacks do not have to be permanent.
Midterm elections have historically been difficult for the party occupying the White House. Since 1946, the president’s party has lost seats in the U.S. House in nearly every midterm election.
Consider a few examples:
- In 2010, Democrats under President Obama lost 63 House seats.
- In 1994, Democrats under President Clinton lost 54 House seats.
- In 1946, Democrats under President Truman lost 56 House seats.
- In 1974, Republicans under President Ford lost 48 House seats.
- In 2018, Republicans under President Trump lost 40 House seats.
Those were enormous political setbacks. Yet neither party disappeared, and neither party’s future was determined by a single election.
The lesson is simple: Elections are chapters in American history, not the end of the story.
We must also recognize that the November 3 results sent a message. We would be foolish to ignore it. We need to listen to voters, understand their concerns, learn from our mistakes, and do a better job communicating the principles we believe in.
I remain committed to the principles that brought me into the Republican Party: individual liberty, fiscal responsibility, limited government, constitutional rights, and opportunity for future generations.
Those principles did not become less important because of the election.
I want to express my sincere appreciation to every candidate who had the courage to put their name on the ballot, every volunteer who knocked on doors, made phone calls, put up signs, donated money, or simply encouraged a neighbor to vote. Your efforts were not wasted, and your dedication has not gone unnoticed.
On a personal note, I could not be prouder of Julie. She put her heart into this campaign, stood by her convictions, and gave voters a choice. Winning an election is wonderful, but having the courage to stand up for what you believe in is something to be proud of regardless of the outcome.
To my fellow Republicans, don’t become discouraged, don’t give up, and certainly don’t walk away.
Our work is not finished. Our communities still need good people willing to serve. Our values still matter. And there will be another election.
We have an opportunity now to reflect, regroup, strengthen our organization, and prepare for the challenges ahead. That work begins with each of us.
We can be disappointed today without being defeated tomorrow.
We lost an election. We did not lose our principles, our purpose, or our future.
Jerry Helmer
Chairman
Republican Party of Sauk County
