Baldwin Defeats Thompson, Keeps Senate Seat in Democratic Hands

The most expensive U.S. Senate race in history is notable for another reason. Wisconsin has its first female senator, with Tammy Baldwin’s defeat of Tommy Thompson.

As a longtime governor of the state and former cabinet secretary, Tommy Thompson was better-known, but Tammy Baldwin quickly made her name and positions familiar to voters. She stressed economic fairness on Wall Street, in foreign trade, and the nation’s tax code.

“Make no mistake I am a proud Wisconsin progressive,” she told supporters last night at Madison’s Monona Terrace Convention Center.”Which means I believe in holding powerful accountable, when people are struggling you don’t talk down to them you lift them up.”

Baldwin will be Wisconsin’s first female U.S. Senator ,and its first openly-gay senator. The latter wasn’t a campaign issue and Baldwin said she didn’t want it to define her term.

“I didn’t run to make history,” she said.”I ran to make a difference.”

Baldwin repeatedly stressed unity saying she would represent all voters, even those that supported her opponent. She said they both love Wisconsin. Thompson wished her well in representing the state.

“I thank our new senator,” he said.”I called and congratulated her she wasn’t my first choice, but I wish her well. She is our senator and I wish her well.”

Thompson says he has no plans to run for office again.