2020 Science Voter Guide: Southeastern Wisconsin

Roger Polack hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: info@rogerforwisconsin.com

Bryan Steil hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: bryan@steilforwisconsin.com

Gwen Moore hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Contact form: https://gwenmoore.house.gov/contact/

1. What policies would you implement to ensure all Southeastern Wisconsinites have clean and safe drinking water?
   
   One of my first priorities is to declare a clean water emergency. Our city has crumbling infrastructure and it is jeopardizing our access to clean water and hurting our environment. We’re receiving federal funds to replace lead pipes, but less than 10% have been remediated.
   
2. Should public funds be allocated to perform scientific research – why or why not?
   
   Yes, but we need to look at how the National Science Foundation is prioritizing public funding. We need to address the biggest problems first. Solar power sounds great, but there’s not enough copper in the world to replace fossil fuels. Clean nuclear power provides France with 80% of its electricity.
   
3. What policies would your administration implement to address the causes of climate change? And what would you implement to help Wisconsinites adapt to the impacts of climate change?
   
   The United States’ move to natural gas has substantially reduced the pollution we dump into the atmosphere, while China continues to be the world’s largest polluters. Their coal fired plants create soot that is causing the ice cap in the Himalayas (the second largest in the world) to melt and flood the Yangtze River.
   
4. What policies would you implement to attract new STEM industries, encourage growth of existing companies, and enhance recruitment of qualified personnel to Southeastern Wisconsin?
   
   The Huntsville AL model is a proven approach and one that Southeaster Wisconsin should adopt. There are multiple premier educational institutions, from UW Madison to Notre Dame, to provide high tech recruits. Tax incentives like those given to Foxconn should be used to attract businesses.
   
5. Should science be used to address public health concerns, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and racism? Why or why not? If so, what policies would you implement to do so?
   
   Yes, but science should not be politicized. This question, by including racism, is a great example of politicizing science.

Please add any additional thoughts on how science plays a role in the policies you will enact as an elected official in Wisconsin.

History demonstrates that advancements in science do the most to improve the human condition. Education is the key. Making STEM education interesting to developing minds should be our first priority.

Robert Raymond hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: lakeshor@wi.rr.com

1. What policies would you implement to ensure all Southeastern Wisconsinites have clean and safe drinking water?
   
   Clean water is a human right. The government’s purpose is to supply basic human needs. To ensure every person has clean water, I will advocate for regularly testing all water sources and fix any problems as soon as they’re detected. We also need to support a system of fees and investments to ensure that businesses using chemicals that can seep into our water systems are disposing of them properly.
   
2. Should public funds be allocated to perform scientific research – why or why not?
   
   We need to embrace science and innovative thinking to take our place as leaders on the global stage. Funding and supporting scientific research helps us better understand the direct causes of climate change. Our federal agencies must be allowed to run their studies and publish their scientific reports on climate change and renewable energy to take the appropriate actions. Having accurate information is essential in making proper decisions and implementing meaningful solutions. Now is when our government steps up and becomes a leader in scientific progress through research and innovation. It’s critical we allocate the proper funding, set a common goal, and recruit the leading scientific thinkers to solve climate change with groundbreaking new ideas.
   
3. What policies would your administration implement to address the causes of climate change? And what would you implement to help Wisconsinites adapt to the impacts of climate change?
   
   It is a climate crisis because we are at a point in history that we have to prepare our children and grandchildren for the effects of climate change. Protecting Wisconsin’s rich agricultural heritage is a priority. We must find solutions to reduce drastic changes in temperature and precipitation that adversely affect Wisconsin’s agriculture growing season, crop yields, weed, pest infestations, and dairy production. According to climate science, the environmental damage we’ve caused over the past few decades is irreversible. That’s a sobering reality, but one we must accept. However, we can dig in and prepare for the consequences. To help sustain our communities, the federal government must develop and adopt resiliency plans to reduce the threats created by climate change.
   
4. What policies would you implement to attract new STEM industries, encourage growth of existing companies, and enhance recruitment of qualified personnel to Southeastern Wisconsin?
   
   The green energy industry is outpacing the fossil fuel industry in job creation already. We need to implement incentives to support the best and brightest scientists and researchers from all over our country to develop the next breakthroughs in renewable energy technology. Healthy competition helps us find better, more sustainable solutions while creating thousands of new jobs. We must shift subsidies from the fossil fuel industry into the renewable energy sector. We must establish generous incentives and rewards for public-sector companies that are actively developing renewable energy solutions and creating job opportunities.
   
5. Should science be used to address public health concerns, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and racism? Why or why not? If so, what policies would you implement to do so?
   
   Yes, science should be used to address public health concerns. I will work to establish a comprehensive national plan to serve Wisconsin and the nation. This plan would emphasize testing and tracing, providing sufficient personal protection equipment (PPE), developing science-based treatments and vaccines, reopening safely and effectively, and protecting those at high risks, such as older Americans. This campaign is a firm believer in following the lead of scientific experts, such as Dr. Anthony Fauci.  I will work to support the medical community in Wisconsin and be there to support the health needs of the Fifth District.
   
   Racism is an economic and health crisis. You must address both for the Black community. This means economic relief should have come expediently to all citizens. We should have established robust, free, accessible testing in Black communities while also ensuring that primary care physicians were equipped (or people in medical school were supported and encouraged to become primary care physicians or family medicine physicians) to deal with mitigating the effects of COVID on Blacks who suffer from certain diseases that affect their community. Reducing the number of accessible liquor, tobacco stores, and fast-food restaurants in neighborhoods that service Black people while encouraging the installment of organic, fresh, grocery stores and co-ops, such as Outpost, could also prevent some of the chronic long-term illnesses that affect the Black community and decreased their susceptibility to COVID. Making these foods affordable and supporting socioeconomic mobility for Blacks would have also decreased the impact. In addition, we should have increased access to medical school and made it more affordable to Black people so that we could have more Black voices in the health community. Finally, training white medical students to listen to Black people and to treat them as they would non-minorities, with a racial equity lens, could have helped the government’s response to COVID in the Black community. Racism is a public health crisis and sadly, this became even more apparent during this pandemic.
   
   We need to ensure the United States is on an irreversible path to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Build a sustainable world for younger generations by transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy, upgrading our infrastructure, and improving the way we farm. Create jobs in climate-smart agriculture; we must develop more innovative green energy solutions in the renewable energy sector. Be a steward for the environment, promise to keep Climate Change as a top priority in DC. Prepare our communities for the effects of climate change, by helping sustain our communities; the federal government must develop resiliency plans to help reduce the threats created by climate change.

Answers prepared by: Tom Palzewicz, Candidate

Scott Fitzgerald hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: staff@scottfitzgeraldforcongress.com

1. What policies would you implement to ensure all Southeastern Wisconsinites have clean and safe drinking water?
   
   I want to support the removal of all lead laterals in this state.
   
2. Should public funds be allocated to perform scientific research – why or why not?
   
   Yes, and a great example has been Wisconsin’s investment for generations in the work being done at the UW System. We need to restore our commitment to the Wisconsin Idea.
   
3. What policies would your administration implement to address the causes of climate change? And what would you implement to help Wisconsinites adapt to the impacts of climate change?
   
   I support the Evers’ Administration’s Climate Change Task Force and the goal of 100% carbon-free energy by 2050. We know that the negative impacts of these changes are felt hardest by those with the least, so we need to continue to make targeted investments in developing communities that are already struggling. We also need to provide income and employment support for workers who are displaced by climate-driven economic shocks.
   
4. What policies would you implement to attract new STEM industries, encourage growth of existing companies, and enhance recruitment of qualified personnel to Southeastern Wisconsin?
   
   Wisconsin currently has one of the biggest STEM economic development projects in SE Wisconsin with Foxconn, so I think we should wait to see what kind of effect those incentives have before we add more.
   
5. Should science be used to address public health concerns, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and racism? Why or why not? If so, what policies would you implement to do so?
   
   Yes, I am always interested in looking at evidence-based solutions to the challenges we face as a state. From listening to public health experts in fighting COVID-19 to thinking about implicit bias in our criminal justice system, we should always use data and evidence to inform our decision-making whenever possible.

Answers prepared by: LaTonya Johnson, Candidate

Alciro Deacon hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: deaconforsenate@gmail.com

1. What policies would you implement to ensure all Southeastern Wisconsinites have clean and safe drinking water?
   
   Policies to protect both rural and urban areas. In rural areas, protect wells and drinking sources from run-off by large corporate farms requiring protection of sources. In urban areas, protecting lakes, wells and all sources from excessive discharge and dumping. Drinking water must be protected for all citizens to ensure safety.
   
2. Should public funds be allocated to perform scientific research – why or why not?
   
   Yes. As the current Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic has shown us, our society must commit itself to scientific research, to protect our health and safety, and also to generate a job-building economy for our future.
   
3. What policies would your administration implement to address the causes of climate change? And what would you implement to help Wisconsinites adapt to the impacts of climate change?
   
   Science based, common sense policies that follow the facts. Not only does this protect future generations, it protects the landscape of our future. Policies that halt the decimation of our environment stop and prevent climate change, and by their implementation create jobs by fostering the growth of businesses that build the protections.
   
4. What policies would you implement to attract new STEM industries, encourage growth of existing companies, and enhance recruitment of qualified personnel to Southeastern Wisconsin?
   
   Tax abatement and job training support and cooperation between state and municipal governing units. In addition, tuition credit along with support within the UW and technical college campuses across Wisconsin, with incentives to employers that support the public higher education facilities in Wisconsin.
   
5. Should science be used to address public health concerns, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and racism? Why or why not? If so, what policies would you implement to do so?
   
   Yes. To address and end public health concerns such as COVID-19, the science must be followed. Pandemics follow the science, not governmental directives of rhetoric. Implementing scientific guidelines provides an opportunity to deal with the problems by discovering the solutions.

Please add any additional thoughts on how science plays a role in the policies you will enact as an elected official in Wisconsin.

Science impacts our lives every hour of each day. As a society, we can ignore the impact, or choose to learn from – and implement – the science. By doing so, we will benefit all of us.

Answers prepared by: Neal Plotkin, Candidate

Alberta Darling hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: alberta4senate@gmail.com

1. What policies would you implement to ensure all Southeastern Wisconsinites have clean and safe drinking water?
   
   I just had a conversation with the mayor of South Milwaukee, and they have their own water treatment plant. They were recently hit with massive upgrade requirement from the state, and now have some of the safest water in the state. However, part of the challenge was they were not able to slowly raise rates in anticipation of this expense, and now have had to push through a 40% increase in water rates. So, one of the things the legislature needs to do is adjust rules for municipalities so they can better plan for future upgrades.
   
   Along with that, I had another conversation associated with the UW system, and they are proposing a Freshwater Collaborative of Wisconsin program where experts from UW will work with municipalities and businesses and improving fresh water technologies. It seems like a terrific way to connect education, technology, environmental, and economic benefits into a single entity, and I’m excited to see where it can go.
   
2. Should public funds be allocated to perform scientific research – why or why not?
   
   Absolutely. It’s an investment, although I think public/private/education cooperatives are the way to go. It gives us the opportunity to keep students, educators, researchers, and businesses all working toward a goal here in Wisconsin. That’s a good investment all around, and has proven to be a huge economic boon to the economy.
   
3. What policies would your administration implement to address the causes of climate change? And what would you implement to help Wisconsinites adapt to the impacts of climate change?
   
   Wind and solar are the two most obvious answers to this. They have gotten to the point where they are as efficient and effective as coal when it comes to producing energy. I understand this sounds like a similar answer, but when we have world class research education facilities, and world class manufacturing capability, it makes perfect sense for Wisconsin to be a leader in water, wind, and solar technologies.
   
4. What policies would you implement to attract new STEM industries, encourage growth of existing companies, and enhance recruitment of qualified personnel to Southeastern Wisconsin?
   
   TIFs and government incentives definitely have their place in attracting business. The recent request from the UW system and former Governor, Tommy Thompson, for a 3.5%/year increase for the next few years must be taken seriously, much of which is designed to aid students and create new programs with Wisconsin businesses. Additionally, there needs to be an emphasis placed on the trades and educational opportunities there, all of which require an understanding of science and technology.
   
5. Should science be used to address public health concerns, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and racism? Why or why not? If so, what policies would you implement to do so?
   
   Clearly. Its been sad and disappointing to watch the legislature in Madison utterly ignore basic science associated with COVID-19. There are federal restrictions on things like studying marijuana or gun violence, both of which are in desperate need of studying. Lake Michigan is a record levels and is eroding shorelines, homes, and businesses. I hope to offer suggestions as to what policies to implement, but that requires scientists to be accepted as non-political. That may be our first challenge – restoring faith in science.
   

Please add any additional thoughts on how science plays a role in the policies you will enact as an elected official in Wisconsin.

In anticipation of running for office, I returned to college at 47 years old, and my focus has been on the “soft sciences” – economics, political science, logic. However, I own a software company, and I’m a geek. Statistics, problem solving, and data analysis is my reality. I’m looking forward to bringing a sense of logic and reason back to Madison, and that requires science – in all its many phases.

Answers prepared by: Adam Murphy, Candidate

Julian Bradley hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: julian@julianbradley.org

Sylvia Ortiz-Velez hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: sylvia4wisconsin@gmail.com

Angel Sanchez hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: asanchezconstruction@yahoo.com

Marisabel Cabrera hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: votemarisabel@gmail.com

Veronica Diaz hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: motionpictures213@gmail.com

Dora Drake hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: info@doradrakeforwi.com

1. What policies would you implement to ensure all Southeastern Wisconsinites have clean and safe drinking water?
   
   Addressing lead pipes in Milwaukee and Glendale
   
2. Should public funds be allocated to perform scientific research – why or why not?
   
   Maybe in certain situations.
   
3. What policies would your administration implement to address the causes of climate change? And what would you implement to help Wisconsinites adapt to the impacts of climate change?
   
   Being more aware of pollution and waste in the community.
   
4. What policies would you implement to attract new STEM industries, encourage growth of existing companies, and enhance recruitment of qualified personnel to Southeastern Wisconsin?
   
   Offering new talent in recruiting a new workforce and new consumers to buy products.
   
5. Should science be used to address public health concerns, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and racism? Why or why not? If so, what policies would you implement to do so?
   
   I am open to hear more on these topics and science.

Answers prepared by: Orlando Owens, Candidate

1. What policies would you implement to ensure all Southeastern Wisconsinites have clean and safe drinking water?
   
   I would expand regulations on companies that are known to pollute waterways. I would be consistent and impose fines/fees on them if they violate clean water policies. I would also work with each municipality to survey impairments to clean drinking water (lead laterals or otherwise); after surveying each municipality, I would help municipalities apply with the Board of Commissioners of Public Lands (BCPL) for low cost bonding loans to replace lead laterals and improve the accessibility to clean unencumbered drinking water.
   
2. Should public funds be allocated to perform scientific research – why or why not?
   
   Yes. If it were not for the research being conducted at our research one universities (UW-Madison & UW-Milwaukee) we would not be on the cutting edge of medicine or have the ability to study theories that have produced advances throughout academia. Scientific research is paramount to the future and we cannot afford to divest from this research. As we try to combat replication of detrimental genomes that may cause disease or premature death, having strong research programming at our universities in definitely an asset.
   
3. What policies would your administration implement to address the causes of climate change? And what would you implement to help Wisconsinites adapt to the impacts of climate change?
   
   The first would be to admit climate change is real and acknowledge that we must take its effects seriously. The second, would be to give DNR the ability to engage in climate change research and not have the department wholly rely on the Wisconsin Initiative on Climate Change Impacts. To combat climate change, we must study how the warming of our planet affects Wisconsin’s wetlands, infrastructure, soil erosion, and agrarian economy.
   
4. What policies would you implement to attract new STEM industries, encourage growth of existing companies, and enhance recruitment of qualified personnel to Southeastern Wisconsin?
   
   I would implement a true Green Jobs initiative for our state. One that focuses on the manufacturing of E85 fuel, hemp production and manufacturing, and introducing a retail marijuana market. I would also expand the production capacity of existing dairy and cranberry farmers by allowing regional transit hubs in the state which would ensure production and employment opportunities in our metropolitan areas, while simultaneously preserving the farming heritage of our rural communities. City and rural, we have to realize that we are dependent on each other to make Wisconsin thrive.
   
5. Should science be used to address public health concerns, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and racism? Why or why not? If so, what policies would you implement to do so?
   
   Absolutely it should. Science, much like K-12 education is a fundamental aspect of human life. We must invest in modern medicine and err on the side of science to guide policies that will help us move beyond COVID-19. There are health disparities that exist in medicine and climate change which are collectively termed “environmental racism.” With noise pollution, lead water, and fewer physicians servicing poorer communities we have to ensure that preventive care is openly accessible to our neediest constituents. Often these are constituents who live in remote areas with little to no public transportation or those that live in densely populated cities who are unemployed or underemployed. Some of the policies I would implement would include: establishing a statewide doula program for expectant mothers, loan forgiveness incentive programs for physicians and certified nurse midwives who practice in Wisconsin’s neediest counties, MOUs with all corporate managers of manufacturing plants that outline the expectation to increase minority participation and employment, as well as guidelines for cleanup of corporate waste within our waterways and an escalating fee schedule for malfeasance. I would also prefer a state mandate to remove all lead laterals within the next ten years.

Answers prepared by: LaKeshia Myers, Candidate

Ozell Cox hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: ocox12thassembly@gmail.com

Sara Rodriguez hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: friendsofsararodriguez@gmail.com

Rob Hutton hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: rob@rob-hutton.com

1. What policies would you implement to ensure all Southeastern Wisconsinites have clean and safe drinking water?
   
   A major issue in Southeastern Wisconsin is access to clean and safe drinking water, primarily because of the prevalence of lead pipes. I have supported and will continue to support policy initiatives to replace lead laterals in our communities to mitigate the life-long effects that lead has on a person’s body.
   
2. Should public funds be allocated to perform scientific research – why or why not?
   
   Yes- scientific research is critical for economic development and improving the lives and livelihoods of Wisconsinites, and people across the U.S. The University of Wisconsin-Madison is one of the best research institutions in the country, and we need to continue investing in our higher education system because of the high returns on investment for our economy.
   
3. What policies would your administration implement to address the causes of climate change? And what would you implement to help Wisconsinites adapt to the impacts of climate change?
   
   I support the creation of the Governor’s Task Force on Climate Change. They are set to present their recommendations this month, and I believe it is crucial we take serious consideration of these policy recommendations, especially as we head into the next budget cycle. I appreciate Governor Evers’ commitment to achieve carbon neutrality in Wisconsin by 2050. We need to keep thinking long term on how to mitigate the effects of climate change, while also taking serious steps forward now as we see the immediate effects of climate change through wildfires in the west and the increasing severity and frequency of hurricanes and tropical storms in the southeast.
   
4. What policies would you implement to attract new STEM industries, encourage growth of existing companies, and enhance recruitment of qualified personnel to Southeastern Wisconsin?
   
   To attract and grow STEM industries, we need to grow our qualified workforce in the state. We need to continue making investments in our higher education system and connect companies with graduates in the appropriate industry. We can expand STEM education in our K-12 schools as well. We also need to ensure Wisconsinites can access these jobs by expanding our public transportation system.
   
5. Should science be used to address public health concerns, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and racism? Why or why not? If so, what policies would you implement to do so?
   
   Yes- absolutely. We have learned so much about the science of COVID-19 over the past several months and it has certainly directed how we respond to the pandemic. An example of this is wearing masks- at the start of the pandemic, we didn’t know if mask-wearing was beneficial or detrimental to stopping the spread of COVID-19, however the science then showed that universal mask-wearing is one of the best tools we have to stop the spread of the virus.
   
   For climate change- we’ve seen the scientific evidence for years, and we are seeing the impact it has on public health. Whether it is the prevalence of new, severe diseases, or more intense hurricanes or wildfires that destroy lives and livelihoods, we need to listen to what the science tells us and take action to combat climate change, or else the public health crisis that it is causing will get much, much worse.
   
   Racism is a public health crisis- Milwaukee and Milwaukee County were the first local jurisdictions to declare it as such. We see the impact of racism on the public health of our state. We have some of the worst rates of maternal and infant mortality for Black mothers and babies. We see that the COVID-19 pandemic is disproportionately impacting people of color, including Black, Indigenous, and Latinx populations. We need real, systemic changes to address the public health crisis of racism in our state and our country.

Please add any additional thoughts on how science plays a role in the policies you will enact as an elected official in Wisconsin.

We should be investing in technologies that protect both the planet and human prosperity. I am committed to working on and supporting science-related policies that do both.

Answers prepared by: Robyn Vining, Candidate

Bonnie Lee hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: info@bonnieleeforwi.com

Jessica Katzenmeyer hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: jess4assembly@gmail.com

Joe Sanfelippo hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: joe@joesanfelippo.com

Kalan Haywood hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: kalan@haywood4assembly.com

Dennis Walton hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/dennis.walton.1253

Supreme Moore Omokunde hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: info@supremeforassembly.com

Abie Eisenbach hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: abie@abieforassembly.com

1. What policies would you implement to ensure all Southeastern Wisconsinites have clean and safe drinking water?
   
   I have an will continue to support efforts such as what we saw from the task force this last session (even though they didn’t all pass). Bills like AB 789, 790, 792, 797, 799, 801 are important steps forward. That being said we still have a lot more that should be done, especially when it comes to lead (paint and pipes).
   
2. Should public funds be allocated to perform scientific research – why or why not?
   
   Yes. Simply put, it’s in the public’s best interest to do so.
   
3. What policies would your administration implement to address the causes of climate change? And what would you implement to help Wisconsinites adapt to the impacts of climate change?
   
   I’m not in the administrative branch but if you mean Evers, one of his main priorities was to work with Lt. Gov Barnes in setting up the Climate Change Task Force: https://climatechange.wi.gov/Pages/Home.aspx
   I think there is a lot of good ideas that are there and I will continue to champion this issue as a legislator.
   
4. What policies would you implement to attract new STEM industries, encourage growth of existing companies, and enhance recruitment of qualified personnel to Southeastern Wisconsin?
   
   The core of this issue comes form a strong public education system. It is key in both educating the next generation of folks going into this field as well as recruiting people in related fields that want to locate here with their families.
   
5. Should science be used to address public health concerns, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and racism? Why or why not? If so, what policies would you implement to do so?
   
   Yes. Because it can be an effective tool in the toolkit when it comes to addressing this problems. The policy proposals are nearly endless, and we could talk about mask mandates, public health resource allocation being determined by need and not white supremacy, and retro fitting all state buildings to be LEED certified, etc. But more than any individual policy, it’s about the process and how those polices are determined.

Please add any additional thoughts on how science plays a role in the policies you will enact as an elected official in Wisconsin.

Science has and will always play a pivotal role in how I conduct my business at the state.

Answers prepared by: Jonathan Brostoff, Candidate

Helmut Fritz hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/helmut.fritz.733

Erik Brooks hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: erik@brooksforassembly.com

Jessie Rodriguez hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: info@jessieforassembly.com

1. What policies would you implement to ensure all Southeastern Wisconsinites have clean and safe drinking water?
   
   I would have voted against AB794, which allowed polluters to undermine science in groundwater standards. Instead of protecting our water resources and our health, this bill would have eroded an existing – and successful – process for setting health standards that allows on independent science and data. My opponent voted for it. I also would have voted against AB793, which would require the DNR to consider economic impacts over water quality concerns. My opponent voted for it. I believe we urgently need to address the crisis that is lead in our drinking water. Efforts like the SCHOOLs Bill would have required schools, daycares, and summer camps to test for lead in their drinking water. If they found unsafe levels, those water sources would have been taken offline and replaced with clean water sources. There’s no excuse why any Wisconsin child should have lead in their drinking water.
   
2. Should public funds be allocated to perform scientific research – why or why not?
   
   Yes – public funds are the most free from industry bias, and when scientific is funded by private interests you can’t ensure that they are credible. Government investment in scientific research helps create private sector jobs and even entirely new industries.
   
3. What policies would your administration implement to address the causes of climate change? And what would you implement to help Wisconsinites adapt to the impacts of climate change?
   
   In the legislature, I would support Governor Evers’ and Lieutenant Governor Barnes’ Climate Change Task Force. This is a good first step, since Wisconsin was headed backwards on climate change for a decade with the help of my opponent. A previous Republican administration even removed the wording “climate change” from the DNR website. My opponent is one of the state’s most vocal climate deniers – despite the fact that he is a former TV weatherman – and simply defeating him is a step towards addressing climate change in our state.
   
4. What policies would you implement to attract new STEM industries, encourage growth of existing companies, and enhance recruitment of qualified personnel to Southeastern Wisconsin?
   
   Wisconsin is fortunate to have many technology and STEM-related jobs, thanks to investments in higher education. The University of Wisconsin-Madison is already a world-leading center of biotechnology research. The current head of Microsoft is a graduate of UW-Milwaukee. So my first step would be to restore badly-needed funding to the UW system and also K-12 STEM education.
   
5. Should science be used to address public health concerns, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and racism? Why or why not? If so, what policies would you implement to do so?
   
   Yes, absolutely. We would ensure departments like the DNR are led by scientists and foresters, rather than industry experts. Elected leaders should base their voting decisions on the best available science and data, not popular opinion or political whim.

Please add any additional thoughts on how science plays a role in the policies you will enact as an elected official in Wisconsin.

Our campaign has made science a big theme, even hosting Facebook Live “science night” with a friend and pandemic-modeling expert.

Answers prepared by: Deb Andraca, Candidate

Jim Ott hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: jimottfor23@gmail.com

1. What policies would you implement to ensure all Southeastern Wisconsinites have clean and safe drinking water?
   
   I would invest in our infrastructure to ensure Southeastern Wisconsinites have access to clean drinking water and uphold existing environmental protections to ensure water sources designated for human consumption remain potable.
   
2. Should public funds be allocated to perform scientific research – why or why not?
   
   Yes, public institutions conducting scientific research should receive public funding to continue doing so.
   
3. What policies would your administration implement to address the causes of climate change? And what would you implement to help Wisconsinites adapt to the impacts of climate change?
   
   I would support polices which work to end Wisconsin’s reliance on fossil fuels, a leading cause of the climate crisis. To transition our state to a greener economy, I would support programs and trainings in major industries in Wisconsin like manufacturing and farming so business owners and workers in these industries can succeed in a new age of green energy consumption.
   
4. What policies would you implement to attract new STEM industries, encourage growth of existing companies, and enhance recruitment of qualified personnel to Southeastern Wisconsin?
   
   I would invest in STEM education in our public schools, from elementary schools to public colleges and universities. By making investments in STEM education, Wisconsin will be able to produce a workforce equipped with the skillset to help businesses transition to a clean energy model, ultimately adapting and succeeding in a greener economy.
   
5. Should science be used to address public health concerns, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and racism? Why or why not? If so, what policies would you implement to do so?
   
   As a healthcare professional, I rely on science to care for patients and to teach the next generation of healthcare professionals. I would continue to rely on the science and listen to the experts’ advice when crafting public policy.
   
   For example, looking at the data early on, we saw that not all communities were impacted by the COVID19 pandemic equally. We saw communities of color were disproportionately impacted and suffered a higher mortality rate. As a representative, I will continue to follow the science and use trends in data to identify gaps in services and allocate resources accordingly.

Please add any additional thoughts on how science plays a role in the policies you will enact as an elected official in Wisconsin.

As a representative, I will use objective evidence, not subjective opinion to craft public policies. By continuing to follow the science in my new role as a state representative, I assure my constituents of the most successful outcome possible, be it addressing the climate crisis, systemic racism, or a public health challenge.

Answers prepared by: Brittany Vulich, Field Organizer

Dan Knodl hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: DKnodl@yahoo.com

1. What policies would you implement to ensure all Southeastern Wisconsinites have clean and safe drinking water?
   
   Lead remediation – support the $40 million proposed by Gov. Evers to replace lead pipes in homes and day care centers; according to the DHS, lead poisoning still affects 4,000 children each year; high levels exist in every Wisconsin County. We should expand testing to cover all dwellings built before 1950; provide funding to help replace lead service lines; consider low/no-interest loans to homeowners, apartment owners, schools, others. UNCHECKED RUNOFF carries massive health risks to the air, land and water; I will support increased funding for the DNR and return of its authorizations to protect water from polluters.
   
2. Should public funds be allocated to perform scientific research – why or why not?
   
   Yes, it is appropriate for the State to allocate funds for basic research, necessary to cure disease, improve health and protect life on earth, particularly when it is done through public research institutions, like the UW, because of the ripple economic benefit that accrues to Wisconsin residents.
   
3. What policies would your administration implement to address the causes of climate change? And what would you implement to help Wisconsinites adapt to the impacts of climate change?
   
   Climate change is happening fast, impacts everything, and deserves a response at state and local levels. I have seen the very sobering WCCI interim report to the Governor’s Task Force, and as a member of the Assembly will advocate for taking up specific actions, including funding. I see the upside opportunity for new industries such as green farming, smart transit, alternative energies beyond ethanol, and more.
   
4. What policies would you implement to attract new STEM industries, encourage growth of existing companies, and enhance recruitment of qualified personnel to Southeastern Wisconsin?
   
   Attracting new and expanded industries includes making our state a great place to live — with a strong ethos of environmental stewardship, rapid approvals at local levels, the best public schools, and competitive wages. I resist the “race to the bottom” mentality — let other states have the cheapest labor and no taxes. We are Wisconsin, where investment in people and places pays off in quality of life.
   
5. Should science be used to address public health concerns, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and racism? Why or why not? If so, what policies would you implement to do so?
   
   Science is always part of solutions!! It is discouraging to be in an era where masks have become a partisan political statement. I stand with medical expertise in public health. I support Gov. Evers mandates.

Please add any additional thoughts on how science plays a role in the policies you will enact as an elected official in Wisconsin.

I will always try to understand what is contributing to situations, and to react with a problem-solving approach.

Answers prepared by: Ann Lisi, Volunteer Committee

Barbara Dittrich hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: contact@dittrich4the38th.com

August Schutz hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: augustforassembly@gmail.com

Robert Wittke hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: wittkeforassembly@gmail.com

Joel Jacobsen hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: joelfor63@gmail.com

Robin Vos hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: rep.vos@legis.wisconsin.gov

Tip McGuire hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: tipforwi@gmail.com

Ed Hibsch hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: Friends@Ed4WIAssembly.Com

Tod Ohnstad hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: todohnstadforassembly@gmail.com

Crystal Miller hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: crystal@crystalforassembly.com

1. What policies would you implement to ensure all Southeastern Wisconsinites have clean and safe drinking water?
   
   Everyone deserves clean and safe drinking water and it is unacceptable that so many people in Wisconsin do not currently have access to this vital resource.
   
   During the last session, I cosponsored legislation to fund replacement of lead service lines, expand access to funding for private well owners and comprehensively address PFAS contamination. Milwaukee has a higher rate of children with dangerous blood lead levels than Flint, Michigan, and lead contamination in drinking water disproportionately affects people of color and low income people in Southeastern Wisconsin. While Republicans have recently claimed that addressing water quality is a priority, they have yet to pass the necessary legislation to address this issue in Wisconsin.
   
   I also supported Governor Evers’ 2019 budget proposal that included historic investment in new funding for clean water initiatives, enforcement and staffing. I will continue to be a champion for our environment and public health, and work to ensure everyone in Wisconsin has safe and clean drinking water.
   
2. Should public funds be allocated to perform scientific research – why or why not?
   
   Public funds should be allocated to perform scientific research. I strongly support allocating more funding for critical research being conducted at our public colleges and universities around Wisconsin, as well as within state government.
   
   Our state agencies often partner with our universities to conduct research of importance to the public, including on issues ranging from reducing carbon emissions to finding cures for chronic illnesses. We must continue to fund research that will advance the public good, rather than leaving the funding of research solely to private corporations seeking short-term gain or to maximize profit.
   
3. What policies would your administration implement to address the causes of climate change? And what would you implement to help Wisconsinites adapt to the impacts of climate change?
   
   Addressing climate change is one of the primary reasons I ran for office and I believe the state can provide strong leadership on this issue. I believe we can and must tackle climate change, create thousands of good-paying jobs and reduce inequality.
   
   This past session, I was proud to introduce a package of legislation called “Forward on Climate.” This package included a bill that required the Public Service Commission to include the “social cost of carbon” when reviewing any new energy generating infrastructure, legislation establishing a green bank and resources to compensate farmers for carbon sequestration. I plan to introduce additional climate legislation this coming session.
   
   I have been honored to serve on the Governor’s Climate Change Task Force this year and I will work to implement the recommendations put forward by the Task Force in the coming years. I support moving to 100% carbon free energy as soon as possible and will continue advocating for bold, progressive policy with the urgency that this crisis requires.
   
4. What policies would you implement to attract new STEM industries, encourage growth of existing companies, and enhance recruitment of qualified personnel to Southeastern Wisconsin?
   
   In the past decade, we have seen Wisconsin lose talent to our neighbors in Minnesota and Illinois, as well as other areas of the country.
   
   The University of Wisconsin System and Wisconsin Technical College System are the strongest economic engines in our state but they have not been adequately funded for a number of years. I believe we need to increase the state’s investment in higher education, freeing up capacity to recruit and retain students and graduates. We must reduce the financial burden that students take on to attend college. Investing in the Wisconsin Idea will help promote innovation and sustainable development throughout the state.
   
   Advancing ambitious climate change policy will also help many STEM industries build their capacity and business in Wisconsin and will create significant opportunities for adjacent industries.
   
5. Should science be used to address public health concerns, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and racism? Why or why not? If so, what policies would you implement to do so?
   
   Science must be used to address public health concerns, including climate change, racism and COVID-19. During a pandemic, the only viable path forward is to follow the recommendations of scientists and public health experts.
   
   Wisconsin is one of the worst states for Black people – and Milwaukee and Racine top the list for worst places in the country for Black people to live. Racism is a public health crisis and must be addressed using a comprehensive approach, with policies that are informed by science and provide the support our communities need to thrive.
   
   I will continue to advocate for strong, public K-12 schools and adequately funding higher education in Wisconsin. The University of Wisconsin System conducts some of the most cutting-edge research on issues from stem cells to freshwater science to agricultural sustainability. The state must do far better in supporting the UW and strengthening the Wisconsin Idea.

Answers prepared by: Greta Neubauer, Candidate

1. What policies would you implement to ensure all Southeastern Wisconsinites have clean and safe drinking water?
   
   Grants for home interior modernization and lead abatement grants for updated potable water delivery systems for all public education institutions, city and state parks, and residential and commercial properties older than 25 years of use or occupancy.
   
2. Should public funds be allocated to perform scientific research – why or why not?
   
   It really depends on the research. I’d like to allocate funds for more direct measures such as allocation of funds to update power grids or mental health treatment and supportive services.
   
3. What policies would your administration implement to address the causes of climate change? And what would you implement to help Wisconsinites adapt to the impacts of climate change?
   
   Climate change does not affect all areas around the world the same way. For example rising global temperatures will not affect our access to fresh water in Wisconsin the same way it would in an arid region like the SW United States. We must understand how climate change will impact Wisconsin. As has been the case since humans began to form civilized ascites calamity in one region is opportunity in the next and we must understand what that could mean for a state like Wisconsin
   
4. What policies would you implement to attract new STEM industries, encourage growth of existing companies, and enhance recruitment of qualified personnel to Southeastern Wisconsin?
   
   The answer isn’t how we offer incentives for STEM industries. I’d like to offer incentives to green business models in mines such as Elon musk who has many of his Tesla vehicle parts manufactured in many plants across Southeast Wisconsin. These are industries that we must seek to bring to Wisconsin
   
5. Should science be used to address public health concerns, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and racism? Why or why not? If so, what policies would you implement to do so?
   
   I believe that science is being used on a national state and local level to make informed decisions as to how to proceed forward as a former active duty service member I understand the importance of treatment in triage in this present viral outbreak we do not have a clear plan of action moving forward as to how we are going to live during an in the aftermath of this aggressive contagion science should provide us the solace to move forward in that there is no higher order organism or animal species or otherwise that has been eradicated by viruses or bacteria the scope of an event that would decimate any population is truly an extinction level event coronavirus is not the same Killer as hantavirus

Answers prepared by: Will Leverson, Candidate

1. What policies would you implement to ensure all Southeastern Wisconsinites have clean and safe drinking water?
   
   1) Implement strong, enforceable standards to hold polluters accountable
   2) Invest in and upgrade our clean water infrastructure
   3) Add an elected position to MMSD to make the governing body more accessible to the population
   3) Trust scientists and policy experts to deliver sound advice on water quality and distribution
   
2. Should public funds be allocated to perform scientific research – why or why not?
   
   Yes. Wisconsin succeeds when our research institutions work with government — and vice versa — to improve the quality of life in our state. Investing in scientific research pays for itself
   
3. What policies would your administration implement to address the causes of climate change? And what would you implement to help Wisconsinites adapt to the impacts of climate change?
   
   1) Believe the science on climate change
   2) Help transition to clean, affordable, people-controlled forms of energy
   3) Invest in public transportation
   4) Hold polluters accountable
   5) Specifically invest in our most at-risk areas and industries: agriculture, tourism, and healthcare
   
4. What policies would you implement to attract new STEM industries, encourage growth of existing companies, and enhance recruitment of qualified personnel to Southeastern Wisconsin?
   
   1) Invest in young talent, especially from backgrounds traditionally underrepresented in STEM, and encourage more internship and collegiate-level programing
   2) Study the success stories of other areas and states and implement the highest-performing policies
   3) Focus on making Wisconsin a place that talented folks want to stay, live, and build in — not just work
   
5. Should science be used to address public health concerns, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and racism? Why or why not? If so, what policies would you implement to do so?
   
   Yes. Science should be one component of addressing the modern challenges we face. We need more experts to advise our legislature, and we need more direct involvement from scientific leaders to help craft policy.

Please add any additional thoughts on how science plays a role in the policies you will enact as an elected official in Wisconsin.

I trust experts and plan to listen to them while I’m elected.

Answers prepared by: Jacob Malinowski, Candidate

Ken Skowronski hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: info@voteforskowronski.com

Marc Adam Ciske hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: friendsofmarcadamciske@gmail.com

1. What policies would you implement to ensure all Southeastern Wisconsinites have clean and safe drinking water?
   
   Regulations for holding companies responsible for contamination and work with the DNR on the proper process for cleaning up contamination. Currently, companies aren’t held responsible for contamination that may have happened years or even decades ago.
   
2. Should public funds be allocated to perform scientific research – why or why not?
   
   Yes, public funds should be allocated to research in regards to contamination, clean and safe drinking water, and other environmental issues. The land, water, and air concern all citizens, not just businesses.
   
3. What policies would your administration implement to address the causes of climate change? And what would you implement to help Wisconsinites adapt to the impacts of climate change?
   
   We need to look towards moving to all electric vehicles. We need to make the investments now to helping individuals change from gasoline powered to electric. We have seen so many other equipment such as outdoor tools move to fully electric. We should not stop there.
   
4. What policies would you implement to attract new STEM industries, encourage growth of existing companies, and enhance recruitment of qualified personnel to Southeastern Wisconsin?
   
   Getting individuals to move to Wisconsin would be to lower the costs for residents, such as through lowered property taxes. Although this isn’t related directly to STEM industries, it’s part of a bigger picture of population. Coordinating efforts to increase overall population, we need to be focusing STEM education in all schools across Wisconsin so we have educated individuals for companies to recruit.
   
5. Should science be used to address public health concerns, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and racism? Why or why not? If so, what policies would you implement to do so?
   
   Yes, science needs to be one of the main factors used to address public health concerns but not the only factor used. Data can be represented in so many fashions that we need unbiased representation of data for public view. In addition, data can be interpreted in so many ways that we need unbiased interpretations of the data. Something that might work to address these issues is to institute a commission or organization to be an unbiased reviewer of data and interpretation. This organization would be responsible for relaying data on public health concerns to the media.

Please add any additional thoughts on how science plays a role in the policies you will enact as an elected official in Wisconsin.

Science is crucial, but not the only piece of the puzzle. We need to stay unbiased on all sides when looking for ways to address public concerns in our state.

Answers prepared by: Alan DeYoung, Candidate

Chuck Wichgers hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: chuckwichgers@yahoo.com

Aaron Perry hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: info@perryforwi.com

Scott Allen hasn’t responded to our questionnaire yet. Please reach out and ask them to let us know how they’ll use science in policymaking to help ensure a better future for Wisconsinites. Thank you!

Email: Rep.Allen@legis.wisconsin.gov