Bice: 6 things we learned from the Marquette University Law School Poll

The Marquette University Law School Poll has become the gold standard in Wisconsin politics, so candidates, their campaigns and anyone interested in politics perk up when a new one drops. 

Wednesday was the latest iteration of the MU poll, and this is what we learned.

1. What election?

The race for the Democratic nomination for governor will be won in the next 55 days. That's because the public clearly hasn't been paying attention up until now. Only one candidate — state school Superintendent Tony Evers — scored in double digits in the poll

Whoever wins will face a tight race against GOP Gov. Scott Walker, who leads all 10 potential rivals.

2. Biggest loser

Former state Rep. Kelda Roys won the straw poll at the state Democratic Party Convention and had a much-discussed TV spot in which she breastfeeds her infant.

No matter. She clocked in at 2%. 

3. Bad idea

If the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association had its way, it would have hosted a debate featuring Evers, Madison Mayor Paul Soglin, former Democratic Party Chairman Matt Flynn and Madison campaign finance reformer Mike McCabe.

Likely sponsor: AARP.

4. Good news, bad news

U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin may be leading her two GOP opponents, businessman Kevin Nicholson and state Sen. Leah Vukmir. 

But the first-term senator should be doing better than she is after a big round of TV spending. Giving her foes hope: Baldwin was underwater politically with slightly more people rating her unfavorably than favorably.

5. Policy? Schmolicy

President Donald Trump is more popular in Wisconsin than his policies.

His numbers have crept upward, with his job approval now sitting at 44% But many of his ideas — building a wall between the U.S. and Mexico, opposing free trade and pursuing a nuclear deal with North Korea — don't fare nearly as well in the Badger state.

6. No thanks 

Foxconn is seen as a real con by many state residents, especially those outside southeast Wisconsin. No wonder Democrats can't quit talking about it. 

 Contact Daniel Bice at (414) 224-2135 or dbice@jrn.com. Follow him on Twitter @DanielBice or on Facebook at fb.me/daniel.bice.