Ellie here. We’ve got lots to cover today, let’s jump in.
To start, we’re still keeping an eye on those gas prices. While Wisconsin’s average, at $3.61, is down six cents compared to last week, according to AAA, the national average is up 4 cents at $4.01, as of March 31.
What have you noticed with gas prices around the state? Let me know.
We are also just under a week away from Wisconsin’s spring election, taking place on April 7. We’ll be taking a closer look today at what to expect on your ballot when you head to the polls.
Also today, we’ve got another edition of Meet the Candidates, where we’re taking a look at Republican Michael Alfonso, along with other Wisconsin news.
|
|
|
“Sunset last night West of Warrens, WI.” (Courtesy of Jean D.)
|
Our reader, Jean D. from Warrens sent in this great photo of a springtime sunset. What a beautiful view, thanks for sharing.
Send in your Wisconsin view to have it featured!
Quick reminder, if you’re looking for something to do this week, check out our Badger State Buzz to stay up to date on Wisconsin happenings.
|
|
|
What does the Wisconsin State Senate do?
|
Last week, we covered what the Wisconsin State Assembly does. The Wisconsin State Senate is the other half of the state legislature, with 33 senators each representing a district and serving 4-year terms. Currently, Republicans hold the majority in the state senate.
Here’s what they’re responsible for:
➡️ Passes laws – Senators debate, amend, and vote on bills that must also pass the Assembly to move forward.
➡️ Approves the state budget – They help write and pass the two-year budget that determines how funds are spent throughout the state
➡️ Confirms governor’s appointees – The Senate reviews and votes on officials appointed by the Office of the Governor.
➡️ Holds hearings – Senate committees get input and testimonies from the public and experts before advancing legislation.
Why it matters:
From roads to schoolsb and beyond. decisions made by the senate in conjunction with the assembly shape the everyday lives of Wisconsinites.
|
|
|
In a photo posted to his congressional campaign’s Facebook account, Michael Alfonso writes: “I had the privilege of getting married on the very day Roe v. Wade was overturned — a historic decision only made possible by President Trump.”
|
Michael Alfonso is a Republican candidate for Wisconsin’s 7th Congressional District. He is the son-in-law of US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, and is endorsed by President Donald Trump.
On his campaign website, Alfonso lists his mission as restoring hope for Americans, preserving the country, and delivering the MAGA agenda.
“The biggest issue I’m running on is affordability, and I think we can tackle that with the two big ‘I’s’—immigration and inflation.” Alfonso said in an interview with WSAW-TV.
“We’ve had a massive influx of illegal immigration in this country, and if you’re a young person, that’s one of the reasons why you can’t afford a home.”
|
|
|
By Pat Kreitlow
Elections come in all styles and sizes in Wisconsin — with voting on everything from presidents to county coroners. There are occasional referendums about the constitution of our state or the property tax level for your local school district.
The spring elections are one of the two major types of elections in our state — nonpartisan offices in the spring, partisan races in the fall.
These are the main types of elections, with an emphasis on what will be on ballots around Wisconsin on April 7, 2026.
|
|
|
Would you recommend this newsletter to your neighbor?
|
|
|
Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Ellie Bourdo with stories from Pat Kreitlow. It was edited by Brook Bolen.
UpNorthNews is free for everyone. Your support makes that possible.
|
|
|
You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website.
Our mailing address is:
UpNorthNews / COURIER Newsroom
P.O. Box 27
Chippewa Falls, WI 54729
Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or from this list.
|
|
|
|
