Republican Michael Alfonso secured 48% of the vote in Wisconsin’s 7th Congressional District primary on Tuesday, according to the Associated Press, which called the race at 10:16 p.m. with 40% of ballots counted. Alfonso, the son-in-law of former U.S. Rep. Sean Duffy and Transportation Secretary under President Donald Trump, will advance to the general election in the Republican-leaning district.
Alfonso’s victory follows President Trump’s endorsement in January, which he highlighted on Truth Social, stating: “Michael is the son-in-law of our GREAT Secretary of Transportation, Sean Duffy, and the wonderful Rachel Campos-Duffy... His family has been fierce advocates for our Movement to, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”
The 7th District, which voted for Trump by a more than 20-point margin in 2024, is considered a safe Republican seat. Alfonso will now compete to replace Rep. Tom Tiffany, who announced his retirement in October 2025 to run for governor.
Primary Opponents and Criticisms
The primary field included five other candidates: Niina Baum, a Northwoods resident and dog musher who founded Northwoods Young Professionals; Jessi Ebben, a public relations professional and self-described “Trump Republican”; Kevin Hermening, a financial advisor and former Marine; Don Raihala, an accountant; and Adrian Wydeven, a former Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources biologist. Alfonso’s opponents and local Republican county parties criticized his lack of political experience and reliance on his father-in-law’s political connections during the campaign.
Campaign Support and Endorsements
Alfonso received backing from Turning Point USA, Moms for Liberty, and multiple members of Wisconsin’s Republican congressional delegation. His campaign emphasized themes of economic growth, conservative family values, and opposition to progressive policies, including criticism of local school board decisions.
Alfonso entered the race in October 2025, stating in a campaign announcement that “Northern Wisconsin needs to continue to have a representative who will truly put our families, communities, and America first.” The primary results reflect his strong alignment with Trump-aligned Republican priorities in the district.
General Election Outlook
With Alfonso’s nomination secured, the general election in November will feature a contest in a district that has not elected a Democrat to Congress since 2006. The Democratic Party has yet to formally nominate a candidate for the seat.