Michael Alfonso, son-in-law of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, won the Republican primary in Wisconsin's 7th Congressional District. Alfonso received 48% of the votes when the Associated Press called the race at 10:16 p.m. with 40% of ballots counted. The district had previously voted for Donald Trump in the 2024 election by a margin exceeding 20 points, positioning Alfonso as a strong candidate for the general election in November.
Alfonso's victory was supported by Trump's endorsement, who highlighted Alfonso's family advocacy for the Republican movement. He competed against four other candidates: Kevin Hermening, Jessi Ebben, Niina Threlfall-Baum, and Don Raihala. Alfonso, who is 26 years old and a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, would be the youngest member of Congress if elected. He is set to take over Duffy's former seat, with Duffy actively campaigning for him and transferring $1 million from his campaign account to a super PAC supporting Alfonso.
Alfonso faced criticism from opponents regarding his age and experience, with accusations of nepotism also raised. He has previously worked in construction and as a producer for Dan Bongino's podcast. The congressional seat became available after Rep. Tom Tiffany announced his candidacy for governor, winning the Republican nomination on the same night as the primary.