Ellie here. As always, we’ve got a lot to cover today. Let’s jump in.

First, we’re still keeping an eye on gas prices around Wisconsin, and they seem to be dropping. As of June 2, the state average is at $4.09 per gallon, according to AAA. This is a 26-cent decrease compared to a week ago, the second week in a row that we’ve seen the state average on the decline. This is, however, still a $1.12 increase compared to a year ago.

The national average is also on the decline, with prices at $4.29 per gallon as of June 2, a 20-cent decrease compared to a week ago. 

Are you finally seeing prices at the pump go down? Let me know.

In other news, election season is quickly approaching in Wisconsin. Primaries take place on Aug. 11, and the general election on Nov. 3. Today, we’re taking a look at the ways you can make sure you’re informed before heading to the polls. 

We’ve also got another edition of Meet the Candidates, where we’ll learn about Emily Berge’s campaign for US Congress, along with other Wisconsin news.

UpNorthNews wants to hear from you.

Please take our quick 5- to 10-minute survey to help guide our reporting and improve what we send readers.

Thank you for participating!

Taken on Lake Kawaguesaga in the Minocqua area. (Courtesy of Tom J.)

With Wisconsin’s election season on the horizon, researching candidates can help you make an informed decision at the polling booth. We’ll continue sharing candidate profiles, but here are a few more tips to guide your research:

Visit official campaign websites: These give direct insight into a candidate’s priorities and policies they’d like to implement.

Compare candidates side by side: Make a chart or list of each candidate’s stances on the issues that are most important to you.

Check public statements and interviews: Town halls, debates, and media interviews can show how candidates respond to questions and clarify their policy goals.

Look at past experience and track record: Understanding what a candidate has accomplished in previous roles can show how they might govern.

Engage with your community: Attend forums, discussion groups, or virtual events to hear from candidates and fellow voters directly.

Fact-check claims: Use trusted resources to verify statements about policies or accomplishments.

Being an informed voter is one of the most impactful ways to civically engage.

Independent local reporting helps Wisconsin voters make informed decisions before they head to the polls. If you value our work, please consider chipping in $15.

Emily Berge is one of the Democratic candidates for Wisconsin’s 3rd Congressional District. (Courtesy of Emily Berge for Congress)

(Shutterstock)

Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Ellie Bourdo with stories from Pat Kreitlow. It was edited by Paula Solis.

UpNorthNews is free for everyone. Your support makes that possible.