Wisconsin

Congressional Races:
Districts 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9

Population (1994): 5,082,000 (up 3.9% from 1990), 2% of U.S. total

Voting-age population: 3,777,000; 1994 turnout, 41%

Median age: 32.9 years

Median household income: $35,388 ($3,124 above U.S. median)

Unemployment: 3.7% (1.9% below U.S. average, March 1996)

Last presidential election:

Clinton (D): 41%

Bush (R): 37%

Perot (I): 22%

Congressional delegation: Five Democrats, six Republicans

The first state of the old Midwest, Wisconsin has long been on the forefront of political change. The G.O.P. has roots to the progressive politics of 19th century German settlers, and the state's welfare system served as a model for the 1996 national welfare-reform bill. In a state known for harsh winters and short summers, favorite pastimes include watching hockey and the Green Bay Packers with their devoted "Cheesehead" fans. The Badger State has nine House seats, and with two being vacated by the G.O.P. and another held by a freshman, the Republicans need an escape act similar to native son Harry Houdini's to continue their 2-1 House majority.

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