Peter Burgelis
Small business owner; alder
Democrat
Milwaukee
Elected Experience
Milwaukee Common Council (2024-present); Milwaukee County Board (2022-2024)
Q&A with the Candidate
Why should voters send you to congress?
Voters should send me to Congress because I’ve proven I put people first, not politics or donors. As an alderman, I’ve advanced public safety with common-sense proposals, served on key committees, and delivered for constituents by addressing infrastructure, parking, and small business concerns. My record on the Milwaukee County Board showed I’m willing to make tough decisions while staying focused on fiscal responsibility and accountability. I’ve also made history as an openly LGBTQ leader, fighting to uplift voices too often left out and ensuring that the government protects those who cannot protect themselves. From expanding inclusion to strengthening neighborhoods, my work reflects real results. Bryan Steil serves special interests, I serve the community. I’m ready to bring that commitment to Congress for Wisconsin families.
What is the top issue in your district? How would you address it?
Things are less and less affordable — and it’s Trump’s and Steil’s fault. I’m focused on the pain hardworking people in southeast Wisconsin are feeling trying to afford basic necessities like groceries, utilities, housing, etc. These struggles are because of Trumps’ and Steil’s unwillingness to solve the affordability crisis. Trump’s war of choice shows that there’s plenty of money for billionaire tax cuts — just not for hardworking families in Wisconsin who need help. I’m ready to join my colleagues next January to begin the detailed work of urgently creating legislation to provide economic relief for the working families of southeast Wisconsin.
What expertise would you bring into congress? How would it help your district?
I bring real, hands-on legislative experience to Congress which no one else in this primary can claim. As an alderman and former county supervisor, I’ve written policy, built coalitions, and delivered results on public safety, fiscal accountability, and neighborhood issues. Just as importantly, I show up. I regularly meet with constituents, listen to concerns, and turn them into action. That’s how representative government is supposed to work. My opponent has relied heavily on telephone town halls while largely avoiding in-person engagement, following broader pressure within his party to limit live events. When he has held them, constituents have voiced deep frustration with his alignment to Trump-era policies. I’ll bring proven leadership, accessibility, and accountability to ensure Wisconsin voices are heard and put first in Congress.
Should Congress exert more oversight over the president? Why or why not?
Yes. Congress must exert strong oversight over the president because that is exactly how our Constitution was designed. The framers created a system of checks and balances to prevent any branch from becoming too powerful. Oversight is not partisan, but a duty. Congress has a legal and moral obligation to hold the executive accountable, demand transparency, and protect the American people. History shows why this matters, from Watergate to modern investigations into executive overreach. When members of Congress fail to uphold this responsibility, they neglect their oath of office. No president, regardless of party, should act without accountability. If leaders refuse to check abuses of power, they aren’t defending the Constitution. They are undermining it, and voters deserve representatives who will stand up and act.
What is your favorite fun Wisconsin history fact?
One of my favorite Wisconsin history facts is that in 1919, our state became the first in the nation to ratify the 19th Amendment, helping secure women the right to vote. That moment reflects something I deeply believe in and Wisconsin often leads by standing on the side of fairness, inclusion, and expanding opportunity. It’s a reminder that progress doesn’t just happen in Washington; it starts in states and communities where people are willing to stand up and do what’s right. That same spirit still defines our state today. Whether it’s fighting for representation, protecting rights, or giving people a voice, I’m proud to come from a place that has always pushed the country forward and I’m committed to carrying that tradition with me.