Quick Links:
- Introducing the “Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Act”
- 2025 State of the State Address
- Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
- Follow Along on Facebook
- Contact Me
Introducing the “Robert F. Kennedy (RFK) Jr. Act”
I had the pleasure this week of introducing a bill with State Senator Van Wanggaard that will create a pathway for candidates who have suspended their campaigns to prevent their names from appearing on Wisconsin ballots. The process would be available to independent candidates for president (such as RFK Jr.) or vice president as well as state or federal candidates who meet certain criteria.
The 2024 presidential campaign revealed a serious flaw in Wisconsin election law. We witnessed RFK Jr. suspend his campaign for President of the United States, yet he was unable to stop his name from appearing on Wisconsin ballots. This turn-of-events highlighted a quirk in Wisconsin election law: the only way an individual can have their name removed from a ballot is if they pass away. This way of operating is nonsensical and increases voter confusion, failing to recognize real-world circumstances that can influence a candidate’s decision to continue their campaign. Most states have a process in place for these scenarios, and it is in the best interest of our voters to adopt such a pathway in Wisconsin.
The “RFK Jr. Act” creates a formal process for independent candidates for president and vice president, as well as other state and federal candidates to work with the Wisconsin Elections Commission (WEC) to request that their name not appear on the ballot. Any candidates wishing to withdraw must submit a sworn statement to WEC prior to the certification of candidate names for that election. WEC is also required to verify the authenticity of such statements and candidates will be required to pay a nominal fee for utilizing the process.
Life is unpredictable, and circumstances and situations can change promptly. If a candidate for office no longer seeks to hold that respective office, they should be able to decide to suspend their campaign and have their name removed from the ballot.
This new proposal is currently circulating for co-sponsorship support from my legislative colleagues. I am looking forward to seeing this common-sense solution move ahead this session.
2025 State of the State Address
The Governor delivered his State of the State address Wednesday night, and while there is some agreement on issues affecting our state, it is clear that Legislative Republicans have different plans for how to move our state forward.
There were a variety of subjects discussed, all of which will soon come to deliberation in the legislative process. One issue I’ve taken the lead on and will continue to advocate for is reasonably reducing the tax burden on Wisconsinites rather than irresponsibly expanding government at the taxpayer’s expense.
The unfortunate truth is that the Governor’s budget requests have consistently proposed growing our government through reckless spending. What also went unmentioned were the vetoes of Republican tax proposals we have seen time and time again from the Governor. Meanwhile, Wisconsin middle-class families, seniors, and low-income individuals have been wrestling with rising costs and could use the targeted breaks we’ve been attempting to provide.
Working together and meeting our challenges head-on with cooperative ideas is an important principle. Unfortunately, the Governor endorsed more leftist rhetoric on immigration, education, and spending, all while he and others claim to be hoping for a session rich in collaboration.
There are plenty of opportunities for the state to improve the lives of Wisconsinites. As we consider differing proposals, I look forward to working with my colleagues not on empty platitudes, but on managing the diverse challenges facing Wisconsin.
Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
On Monday, we honored the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and reflected on his tireless efforts to bring about equality, justice, and peace for all. Dr. King’s message of nonviolence and devotion continues to inspire us to strive for a better future.
In celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, let us remember Dr. King’s words: “The time is always right to do what is right.” We commit ourselves to realizing his dream of a just and impartial society where all citizens are treated equally, regardless of any immutable characteristics.
We honor Dr. King by continuing to fight for this vital cause and by making Wisconsin a better place.
Follow Along on Facebook
Want to hear more about what’s going on in Madison and the district? Follow my Facebook page for weekly updates and to learn more about bills, events, and efforts I’m involved in. Find my Facebook page here: facebook.com/RepSteffen/.
Contact Me
My office is always available to help with any state-related questions or concerns you may have. You can reach my office at (608) 237-9104, or email me at [email protected].
