Van Orden to Face Cooke Again in Wisconsin House Race

Rep. Derrick Van Orden (R‑Wis.) is projected to face a rematch against political fundraiser and waitress Rebecca Cooke (D) for a pivotal House seat that covers central and western Wisconsin, Decision Desk HQ reported. The projection follows Cooke’s narrow defeat in 2024, when she lost to Van Orden by just over 11,000 votes.

In the 2024 contest, Cooke, who has built a political profile through fundraising and community work, successfully navigated a primary challenge from a former Eau Claire City Council member before facing the incumbent. Van Orden, who has represented the district since 2023, maintained his seat by a margin that underscored the district’s competitive nature. The projected rematch signals that both parties view the seat as a key battleground for the upcoming election cycle.

The anticipated showdown will be watched closely by party strategists and voters alike, as the outcome could influence the balance of power in the Wisconsin House of Representatives. With both candidates already familiar with the district’s electorate, the next election promises a highly contested race that could shape state policy directions.