MADISON — A new, statewide poll conducted by Public Opinion Strategies revealed that likely Wisconsin voters strongly support strengthening work requirements for the state’s Medicaid program and increasing public funding for the state’s Youth Apprenticeship Program. Additionally, the poll found that Wisconsin voters support restoring higher academic standards and requiring honest school report cards.
According to the poll, support for strengthening work requirements is overwhelming:
- 76% of voters support requiring able-bodied adults without children to work to receive low-cost health care through Medicaid. (55% strongly support.)
“Work is the pathway to opportunity,” said Scott Manley, Executive Vice President of Government Relations at WMC. “By strengthening work requirements, Wisconsin can help move individuals off the sidelines, rejoin the workforce, and experience the dignity and independence that comes with employment.”
The poll also shows resounding support for educational reform and youth apprenticeship funding:
- 95% of voters favor increased funding for Wisconsin’s Youth Apprenticeship Program. (75% strongly support.)
- 82% of voters want to restore higher academic standards and require honest school report cards. (61% strongly support)
“Wisconsin voters understand that ensuring that our next generation is prepared for success is paramount,” said Rachel Ver Velde, Associate Vice President of Government Relations at WMC. “Enforcing rigorous academic standards and expanding hands-on learning opportunities like youth apprenticeships ensures Wisconsin students have the skills they need to thrive.”
Pro-growth leaders in the Legislature have advocated for and advanced policies that strengthen work requirements and raise academic standards. Unfortunately, Governor Evers has refused to engage on these commonsense reforms substantively.
The survey was conducted for the Jobs First Coalition by Public Opinion Strategies from September 13–17, 2025, among 800 likely Wisconsin voters, with a margin of error of ±3.46%.
