High school students from across Wisconsin gathered at the State Capitol on May 1 for the 2026 Wisconsin Civics Games State Finals, a daylong competition focused on civic knowledge and engagement.
Chief Justice Jill Karofsky opened the event by framing the competition as part of a broader commitment to democratic participation, encouraging students to think about the role they will play as future voters and decision-makers.
“The way that we make change in a democracy is by going to the voting booth and casting your ballot,” Chief Justice Karofsky said.
Organized by the Wisconsin Newspaper Association Foundation, the Civics Games bring together top-performing teams from regional competitions to test their understanding of government, history, and the Constitution. The finals included multiple rounds of competition, with finalists advancing to an afternoon championship round and awards ceremony.
The opening program also featured remarks from Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez, Attorney General Josh Kaul, and Universities of Wisconsin leadership, each emphasizing the importance of civic knowledge and participation.
Teams competed throughout the day before winners were announced during the closing program, capping an event designed to reinforce the connection between classroom learning and real-world civic engagement.