Americans for Prosperity got involved in county board elections in northern Wisconsin this spring, hoping to help pro-mining candidates win.
At issue is the huge iron mine Gogebic Taconite hopes to excavate. Supporters say the mine will be good for business, and help create jobs in an area that badly needs them. Opponents fear the mine will pollute the environment.
Americans for Prosperity sent mailings and contacted voters by phone, urging them to elect candidates that favor mining.
According to the Wisconsin State Journal, five of the candidates AFP backed won seats on the Iron County board, while four failed at the polls.
There are 15 seats on the county board. Ten of the 15 incumbents faced challengers Tuesday.