Kennedy Takes Wisconsin (PJW)

April 5, 1960
MADISON: The results are in, and the Senator from Massachusetts, the young John F. Kennedy, has won the Democratic primary for Wisconsin. After suffering a surprising loss in New Hampshire to Senator Harry F. Byrd of Virginia last month, Kennedy rebounded and took Wisconsin.

This isn't as surprising as one might think, however. Kennedy, a Catholic, found support in the many areas of Wisconsin that are predominantly Catholic. This has left many party bosses unsure if the Senator has enough appeal to win over non-Catholics. Kennedy's youth and relative lack of experience is also another concern for voters. Humphrey had been a senator since 1949; Byrd since 1933; and Kennedy only since 1953.

The next contest will take place in Illinois.

Voting Totals:

Kennedy: 42%

Humphrey: 33%

Byrd: 31%