MARATHON COUNTY (WAOW) -
Voters will head to the polls to pick a new U.S. Senator, and no matter which way the race ends up, it will be historic.
The senate seat has been held by a Democrat for more than five decades and it's a crucial one for both parties as they try to control the senate.
Both Democrat Tammy Baldwin and Republican Tommy Thompson told Newsline 9 if elected, they'll fight for change.
"It's about jobs and opportunities in America that's gotten lost in the last four years and we can change that," Thompson said at a stop in Wausau.
"I've spent my time in public service fighting for hardworking middle class families, trying to grow the middle class again," Baldwin told supporters at the Wausau Labor Temple.
It's been a bitter race, one marked by negative ads and heated exchanges. Both candidates have fought hard, but no matter who wins, this race is one for the history books.
Tammy Baldwin would be the first woman elected to the senate in Wisconsin.
If Tommy Thompson wins the seat, the state would have two Republican U.S. Senators for the first time since the 1950s.
Baldwin was joined by former Congressman Dave Obey and Senator Herb Kohl Monday.
"I just don't remember an election that has been as important as the one that we're facing for the very direction of this country," she said.
Meantime, Thompson toured a manufacturing company in Schofield with Governor Scott Walker.
"I want to change the direction of our government. I want us to become bipartisan and solve the problems of America," he said.
The latest polls show Baldwin has a slight lead heading into election day, but both candidates said they will continue to campaign until the polls close.
