By Rose Oswald Poels, WBA president and CEO
Last week’s Wisconsin primary election marked an important milestone in what is shaping up to be a closely watched and highly consequential election season for our state. At the top of the ticket, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley secured the Democratic nomination for governor in a surprising upset over State Representative Francesca Hong, setting the stage for a November gubernatorial contest against Republican Congressman Tom Tiffany. With national attention expected to focus on Wisconsin once again, the months ahead promise an active and engaging political environment.
The primary also featured several significant legislative and congressional contests across the state. We were pleased to see the successful reelection of Assembly Budget Committee Co-Chair Mark Born, a longtime friend of Wisconsin’s banking industry. We will also continue to closely follow several key races, including Senate District 17, where Senator Howard Marklein, another strong supporter of banking, faces a competitive reelection campaign, as well as other legislative and congressional contests that could shape Wisconsin’s policymaking landscape for years to come.
Regardless of the outcomes in November, WBA remains committed to building strong relationships with policymakers from both parties and ensuring they understand the vital role banks play in supporting Wisconsin communities, businesses, and consumers. Our Government Relations team has already begun meeting with candidates on both sides of the aisle seeking legislative office and looks forward to continuing those conversations over the coming months. These meetings provide valuable opportunities to educate candidates about the banking industry, discuss the key issues impacting Wisconsin banks, and share how our industry helps drive economic growth throughout the state.
By the time the new legislature is sworn in this January, our team expects to have met with nearly 20 candidates from districts that will be represented by incoming lawmakers. Establishing these relationships early helps ensure that elected officials have a strong understanding of the banking industry and the policies that affect our ability to serve customers and communities effectively.
You may help with this effort and amplify your connections that shape the banking industry by hosting one of WBA’s Take Your Legislator to Work Day (TYLTWD), a simple, yet powerful opportunity to engage directly with elected officials and advocate for Wisconsin’s banking industry.
At its heart, TYLTWD is about meaningful conversation. Participating banks host their legislators for a visit focused on three key objectives: building stronger relationships with elected officials, sharing real-world insights from your local marketplace, and discussing state and federal issues that impact your bank and customers. Contact Tyler Foti or Chris Borgerding from our Government Relations team if you’re interested in holding one.
As always, WBA is well-positioned to advocate on behalf of Wisconsin’s banking industry, regardless of which party ultimately prevails at the ballot box. We will also continue to keep members informed as the election season unfolds with “Get out the Vote” information.
