Lee Snodgrass
State representative
Democrat
Appleton
Elected Experience
Wisconsin State Assembly (2021-present)
Q&A with the Candidate
Why should voters elect you?
I’m a proven champion for my district and the Fox Cities. In my 5+ years in office I’ve gained the knowledge and built relationships with legislators on both sides of the aisle to solve problems and advance legislative solutions to improve the lives of constituents. I’ve earned the respect of community leaders and stakeholders that enable me to easily connect folks to the resources they need. This job requires a hardworking, accessible individual who will go to the mat for the people they represent. It requires nuance, compromise and the skill to navigate spaces where there are not always shared views. I’m adept and having these conversations and finding places of shared agreement where we can move forward on behalf of the people I represent.
What is the top issue in your district? How would you address it?
The top issue is affordability. Whether it is the cost of gas, groceries, health care, child care, or housing, people are struggling. I’m a working class representative who holds two part time jobs in addition to my legislative job so I understand and have been part of authoring legislative solutions to help families reduce household expenses. From covering costs of prescription medications, raising the state minimum wage, prpviding paid family leave, providing free school lunches, eliminating sales taxes on period products, reducing costs for renters, and state funding for public schools to keep property taxes in check, I will continue to work with my colleagues on ways the state can do its part to reduce costs and ensure all households can better make ends meet.
How should Wisconsin government operate differently than in the past?
The biggest complaint voters have about government is how divided and contentious it has become. If we can agree on the problems, we should be able to work together in good faith on solutions, no matter the political affiliation. I have been recognized for my bipartisan efforts and have authored several bills with Republicans. This should not be unusual. It should be the norm. We need to focus on our common love for Wisconsin and the people who call it home instead of fighting amongst ourselves.
What is your favorite fun Wisconsin history fact?
Wisconsin as the "laboratory of democracy." I love that our state has historically led on equal rights and progressive policy. From the 1911 passage of the first workers compensation law to 1919 when we became the first state to ratify the 19th Amendment giving women the right to vote, Wisconsin has led. Unemployment compensation benefits,being the first to recognize collective bargaining rights for public employees, and our leadership on conservation and environmental policies, through the work of Gaylord Nelson are a few favorite facts of WI on the leading edge!