WISCONSIN — Wisconsin Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Mandela Barnes is rolling out a new ad featuring former President Barack Obama next week, ahead of the pair’s campaign appearance in Milwaukee a week from Saturday.
“Wisconsin, you’ve got a big responsibility this year. Control of the Senate is in your hands,” Obama said in the 30-second digital and radio ad titled, “Obama.” “That’s why I’m proud to endorse Mandela Barnes, someone with humble roots who understands the challenges folks are facing.”
In the ad, the former president highlights Barnes’ upbringing and touts his platform on the economy and abortion rights.
The Barnes campaign said the ads will start airing next week.
Obama’s assistance comes as support appears to be picking up for Barnes’ Republican opponent, Sen. Ron Johnson. A recent poll by Marquette Law School found 52% of likely voters said they were backing Johnson while 46% chose Barnes. A wider margin compared to September’s survey showing the race was statically a tie.
Obama is set to rally in Milwaukee at an early vote event for Barnes and “Democrats up and down the ballot” according to a press release by the Democratic Party of Wisconsin.