Ellie here. There’s a lot to cover today, so let’s get into it.

We’re still keeping an eye on those gas prices as the war with Iran continues. According to AAA, the state average is up to $3.67 a gallon as of March 24, compared to $3.39 last week. The national average is also up 18 cents compared to last week.

Have you felt the impacts of rising gas prices? Let me know your thoughts.

As we mentioned earlier this week, Monday marked the 16-year anniversary of the Affordable Care Act’s signing into law by former President Barack Obama. Thank you to everyone who shared stories about the impact of the ACA on their lives.

Last week, we wrapped up our look at Wisconsin’s gubernatorial candidates (don’t worry, we’ll continue keeping up with them). In today’s Meet the Candidates, we’ll shift to Wisconsin’s 7th congressional district, starting with candidate Ginger Murray. We’ve got this and more Wisconsin news!

“A large group of White Pelicans arrived a couple days ago on Lake Koshkonong. These are amazing birds in size and grace. Here’s a photo that I took on Saturday.” (Courtesy of Stephen C.)

Local news is essential for democracy.

Our reporting cuts through false narratives, documents what’s actually happening in our communities, and provides voters with the clear, factual information they need—especially when the stakes are high.

Have you ever heard about a bill “moving through the assembly” and wondered what it means? Let’s break it down.

The Wisconsin State Assembly is one of two chambers of the Wisconsin Legislature (the other being the Senate). It includes 99 representatives who serve two-year terms and represent a specific area of the state, called a district.

Here’s what they’re responsible for:

➡️ Making state laws
Members introduce, debate, and vote on bills that impact daily life, including schools, roads, and more.

➡️ Setting the state budget
They help write and pass the state budget, deciding how public money is spent across Wisconsin.

➡️ Representing you
Assembly members are meant to be closely connected to constituents and advocate for local needs.

➡️ Holding government accountable
They review state agencies and the governor’s actions to ensure that laws are properly carried out.

➡️ Why it matters
Decisions that affect our day-to-day life often happen at the state level, and the Assembly is where those decisions begin.

Ginger Murray is running for Wisconsin’s 7th congressional district. (Pat Kreitlow/UpNorthNews)

US House Democrats have proposed the Energy Bills Relief Act, designed to lower household electricity bills and strengthen the power grid. (Pexels/Kampus Productions)

Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Ellie Bourdo with stories from Salina Heller. It was edited by Brook Bolen.

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