Kevin Knoke
Retired public school educator
Democrat
Hudson
Elected Experience
None
Q&A with the Candidate
Why should voters elect you?
One of the best parts of being a teacher was knowing that every day I had the chance to make someone's life a little better. I'm running for the Wisconsin Assembly because I want to continue serving others and making a difference. I want to go to Madison and do what I did in the classroom: listen, solve problems, and help people. As your representative, I'll be a tenacious advocate for working families, farmers, seniors and small businesses of the 30th Assembly District. My goal is simple: work hard, fight for western Wisconsin, and make life a little better for the people I serve.
What is the top issue in your district? How would you address it?
The rising cost of living, especially healthcare costs, is a major concern for families across the 30th Assembly District. It's critical that we expand access to affordable health insurance for working families so no family is one medical emergency away from bankruptcy. We also need to lower prescription drug prices, improve access to mental health services, and increase access to quality care across the state. By increasing transparency and competition in the healthcare marketplace, we can make quality care more affordable and accessible for everyone. If we fail to act, more Wisconsinites will be forced to go without health insurance or delay the care they need, putting their health and financial security at risk. Wisconsin families deserve better.
How should Wisconsin government operate differently than in the past?
The Legislature must start putting working families first. We need to address the rising costs and growing challenges facing our communities by expanding access to affordable healthcare, quality childcare, and reliable services for seniors. We must also reaffirm our commitment to public education from our K-12 schools to our technical colleges, trade programs, and universities, because a strong education system is the foundation of a strong economy.
What is your favorite fun Wisconsin history fact?
I was a public school teacher for 26 years. Most of those years, I taught fifth grade. My favorite part of our academic day was social studies. It was during this time that I got to share my love of history. I’ve always loved American history, especially the story of the Civil War. During the Civil War, nearly 1 in 9 Wisconsinites served in the Union Army. More than 91,000 citizens answered the call to preserve the Union, including over half of all eligible Wisconsin voters at the time. Their courage, sacrifice, and commitment to our nation helped shape the Wisconsin we know today. It's a remarkable legacy, one worth remembering, and it makes me proud to be a Wisconsinite.