Looking Ahead: A Vision for Wisconsin in 2025

Looking Ahead: A Vision for Wisconsin in 2025

As we take our first steps into 2025, I want to reflect on the progress we’ve made in Wisconsin, while also outlining my priorities for the year ahead. Serving in the State Senate is an honor, and I’m determined to ensure that our state remains on a path that leads to a more prosperous future where the American Dream is within everyone’s reach.  

Broad Support for Right Reforms

During the last legislative session, the people of Wisconsin approved two amendments to our state constitution. The first, which I co-authored, empowers judges to consider factors other than flight risk when assigning bail. This change, which passed with more than 66% of the vote, was a necessary step toward fixing our “catch and release” justice system. The second, which I authored to ensure that only U.S. citizens can vote in our state and local elections. This amendment earned more than 70% of the vote. In 2025, the legislature will vote to add photo ID requirements for voting to our state constitution. Support from the voters in April would ensure that frivolous lawsuits couldn’t undermine the standard that’s been in place in Wisconsin for well over a decade.

Returning the Surplus to the People

At the end of 2024, Wisconsin held a nearly $4 billion surplus – or, put another way, Governor Evers is holding nearly $4 billion of your money hostage. Despite multiple efforts from the Republican legislature, that money has remained in Madison for more than 500 days. This can’t continue.

In 2025, I’m committed to ensuring that this surplus doesn’t sit idly in a government account, but instead is returned directly to the taxpayers. After all, it’s your money.

Crafting a Budget that’s the Real Deal

Wisconsin needs an efficient, fiscally responsible budget that addresses our state’s needs without overspending. As a new member of the Joint Committee on Finance, the committee that crafts the budget, my goal will be to write that kind of budget. Wisconsin can’t fall into the trap of using the surplus as an excuse to increase government spending. We must resist the temptation to grow government at an unsustainable rate.

Wisconsin is in competition with forty-nine other states, and the quickest way to fall behind is by overtaxing and overspending. The wasteful spending we’ve seen in Washington should not become the norm in Wisconsin. Instead, I’ll continue pushing for a budget that lives within our means while making smart investments in the future of our state.

Looking Forward

2025 is a critical year for Wisconsin. I’m committed to ensuring that we don’t lose sight of our core values: fiscal responsibility, limited government, and strong, safe communities. We’ve made great strides, but there’s much more work to be done.

Together, let’s make this year one of progress, prosperity, and security. Here’s to a successful and prosperous 2025 for Wisconsin!