Not only were they bused in, they were given walking around money...hundreds of dollars per day in some instances..money for showing up, money for food, money to spend at the casinos in the state, as the buses made casino stops on the way home. Don't underestimate the influence Indian gaming has had on the politics of Wisconsin. And don't be naive to believe that all the gaming interests are all within the sovereignty of the reservations. Organized crime/unions saw an opportunity when gaming became legal and there is a real presence here in various degrees at the casinos.
The lack of enthusiasm on the other side, may discourage a few to not vote, but many will never vote for someone with an “R” beside their name. The self-identity that being a Dem is “cool” and “intelligent” is hard-wired into the brain of Dems. Democrats are more afraid of being part of the uncool crowd than they are aware of the implications of their votes.