THIS IS THE PLAN
By Ben Wikler
Publisher: Norton
The former chair of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin shares his perspectives on what it takes to win elections.
Review by By The Books Reviewer
In "This Is the Plan: How to End America's Meltdown and Save Democracy," Ben Wikler, former chair of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin, presents a comprehensive strategy to combat the rise of authoritarianism in the United States. Drawing from his tenure leading Wisconsin Democrats to a series of unexpected victories, Wikler offers a blueprint for revitalizing democracy through grassroots organizing and strategic political action.
Wikler's narrative is both engaging and informative, providing readers with an insider's view of the political battles that have shaped Wisconsin's recent history. He effectively illustrates how localized efforts can have national implications, emphasizing the importance of state and local organizing in countering federal corruption. His assertion that "we don't need a fifty-state strategy—we need fifty state strategies" underscores the necessity of tailored approaches to address the unique challenges each state faces. ([publishersweekly.com](https://www.publishersweekly.com/9781324131434?utm_source=openai))
The book is peppered with humor and cultural references, including nods to "The Princess Bride," which serve to lighten the mood and make complex political strategies more accessible. However, some readers may find these asides distracting or overly casual given the gravity of the subject matter.
Critically, while Wikler provides a detailed account of his successes in Wisconsin, the applicability of his strategies to other states with different political landscapes remains a point of contention. His focus on Democratic victories may also alienate readers seeking a more bipartisan approach to democratic revitalization.
Overall, "This Is the Plan" is a compelling read for those interested in political strategy and grassroots activism. Wikler's firsthand experiences offer valuable insights into the mechanics of political organizing and the potential for localized efforts to effect national change. However, readers should approach the book with an understanding of its partisan perspective and consider how its strategies might be adapted to different political contexts.
Recommendation: Recommended with reservations.
written on: 7/30/2026