Ryan Spaude
Attorney; state representative
Democrat
Ashwaubenon
Elected Experience
Wisconsin State Assembly (2025-present)
Q&A with the Candidate
Why should voters elect you?
As a prosecutor, I fought to keep our streets safe. As your state representative, I'm fighting to keep more money in your pocket. Over the past two years, I've introduced legislation to lower the cost of groceries, housing, and prescription drugs. I authored bills to curb reckless driving and close loopholes in our drunk driving laws. In addition, I opposed the most recent state budget, which underfunded our public schools and caused property taxes to skyrocket. In these challenging times, we need to keep a steady hand at the wheel. It's been an honor to serve you, and I hope to earn your vote again in November.
What is the top issue in your district? How would you address it?
The cost of living remains the top issue in Green Bay and Ashwaubenon. In my first answer, I described the legislation that I've introduced to ease the pain that working families are facing. A few months ago, I also voted to return a significant portion of the state surplus to the taxpayers. I was one of only 10 Democrats who crossed the aisle to do that. I'm an independent leader who's focused on your bottom line.
How should Wisconsin government operate differently than in the past?
Most people believe that when a legislator introduces a bill, it's automatically given a public hearing and voted on. Unfortunately that's not the case in Madison, where Republicans have been running the show for 16 years. Democrats introduced exactly 500 bills this past legislative session. Guess how many were given a hearing? Only 19. That's less than 4%. Meanwhile, Republicans gave 76% of their own bills a hearing. If this sounds like a healthy system of government, you can vote for my opponent. If you believe the Republicans have lost their way, I'd appreciate your support.
What is your favorite fun Wisconsin history fact?
In 1994, Gov. Tommy Thompson signed a bill to make polka the official state dance of Wisconsin. He inked the document at a special ceremony in Pulaski, instead of Madison!