Elections
Second Democrat files paperwork for 3rd Congressional District run
There’s another Democrat starting a bid for Wisconsin’s 3rd Congressional District seat in 2026.
Emily Berge filed paperwork with the Federal Elections Commission on April 11 to run for the seat currently held by Congressman Derrick Van Orden.
She was first elected to the Eau Claire City Council in 2018 and voted in as City Council President in 2023.
Besides her work for the city, Berge is a licensed professional counselor.
She’s also the past president of the League of Wisconsin Municipalities.
On Tuesday, she issued a news release announcing her bid.
A campaign website listed in her paperwork to the FEC is now active as of Tuesday morning April 15. The news release from the campaign also lists social media sites.
Berge’s filing sets up a primary between herself and Rebecca Cooke, who lost to Rep. Van Orden in 2024.
A campaign spokesperson for Congressman Van Orden issued this statement on both the candidates.
“Democrats like Emily Berge and Rebecca Crook fail to grasp that their far-left agenda has real-world consequences that have hurt farmers, veterans, and families all across the Third Congressional District. Congressman Derrick Van Orden has spent the last two years working tirelessly to bring resources and real change to the lives of Wisconsin families. His commitment to improving the lives of folks across the district, state, and nation will speak louder than the failed policies brought to the table by Berge and Crook.”
Cooke announced her 2026 candidacy in March. Campaign Manager Julia Dreher provided a statement to WIZM News:
“While Derrick Van Orden looks out for billionaires and threatens our livelihoods, Rebecca Cooke wakes up everyday fighting for working people and will take that same drive to Congress. She has the lived experience, resources, and deep community connections to beat Van Orden and deliver solutions for Wisconsin families who deserve better healthcare, lower prices, and a fair shot.”
A primary election is scheduled for August 11, 2026, with the election happening on November 3, 2026.
