The leadership elections come as Democrats prepare to govern with a trifecta — control of the governor's office and both legislative chambers — for the first time in more than a decade. Governor-elect David Crowley won his race last week.

Hesselbein, speaking to reporters after the vote, drew a sharp contrast with the past 16 years of Republican control of the Legislature. She said Republicans “have only pursued tax cuts for the ultra wealthy rather than delivering great public services throughout our state.”

“That long nightmare is over,” Hesselbein said. “Wisconsin Senate Democrats are committed to building a future where an honest day’s work nets an honest day’s pay.”

She said her caucus will focus on school funding, regulating artificial intelligence, and addressing affordability — which Democrats identified as their top priority. “We’re going to be working on this. Stay tuned. We’re hoping to come together,” she said.

Hesselbein also promised an open-door policy toward Republicans, saying she assured newly elected Senate Minority Leader Julian Bradley that she will hear GOP bills.

Bradley, for his part, said he hopes to find common ground on tax cuts. “I trust that the new leadership that’s been elected today won’t be punitive or vindictive,” he said. “We’re going to come here to Madison and we’re going to fight tooth and nail every day. When there’s areas to work together, like on tax cuts and affordability, putting money back in people’s pockets, happy to have those conversations.”

Neubauer, the incoming Assembly Speaker, said she will work with her caucus to set bill priorities for the 2027 session but made clear she intends to move quickly. “We are not going to be patient,” she said. “We are going to work hard and work quickly and pass as much good policy as we can for the people of Wisconsin.”

She cited free school meals for all students, investments in public schools to lower property taxes, addressing housing costs, and regulating prescription drug prices as early priorities. “We have a lot of bills that we are considering,” Neubauer said.

Despite the historic nature of the day, few specifics emerged about the Democrats’ first 100 days. Governor-elect Crowley declined to answer questions about his top priority or the legislative leaders’ agenda, offering only a thumbs-up when asked how he was feeling.

Senate Democrats plan to hold caucuses through November and December to prepare for the new session, which begins in January. The party’s new leaders will have to balance an ambitious progressive agenda with narrow majorities and a Republican minority that has already signaled it will fight on taxes and spending.

For Wisconsin voters, the leadership shake-up marks a turning point after years of divided government. Whether Democrats can deliver on affordability and school funding — and whether Republicans will cooperate — will define the next two years in Madison.