Russell Antonio Goodwin, Sr.
Legislator; business owner
Democrat
Milwaukee
Elected Experience
Wisconsin State Assembly (2025-present); Milwaukee County Board (2020-2022)
Q&A with the Candidate
Why should voters elect you?
First, it has been the honor of a lifetime to serve the people of District 12, and I would be honored to earn another term. I believe voters should re-elect me because I’m a proven leader who delivers results. I was told most freshmen pass zero to two bills in their first term. I have worked on more than 500 pieces of legislation, passed over 40 bills in the Assembly, and more than 21 have been signed into law by Governor Evers. My focus is to keep delivering results by lowering property taxes, reducing crime, addressing reckless driving, and creating more opportunities for Wisconsin families.
What is the top issue in your district? How would you address it?
The top issues I hear across District 12 are reckless driving, public safety, and rising property taxes. Families want safe neighborhoods and affordable communities. I have made reckless driving a legislative priority by advancing practical solutions that hold dangerous drivers accountable and improve road safety. I also support giving law enforcement the tools they need while building community trust. I will continue working to provide meaningful property tax relief and deliver practical, bipartisan solutions that make District 12 safer, stronger, and more affordable.
How should Wisconsin government operate differently than in the past?
Gov. Tony Evers has had to lead in a politically hostile environment where many of his powers were limited before he even took office. Despite those challenges, he has made the best of a difficult situation and has continued working to move Wisconsin forward through steady, practical leadership. Going forward, Wisconsin needs leaders who bring people together, listen, and work across party lines which is what I have done. Families want safer communities, better schools, lower taxes, and greater economic opportunity, not political gridlock. I believe government works best when we focus on practical solutions, collaboration, and delivering real results for the people of Wisconsin.
What is your favorite fun Wisconsin history fact?
My favorite Wisconsin fact is that Oconomowoc, WI, hosted the world premiere of the movie, "The Wizard of Oz" in 1939. It’s a unique piece of Wisconsin history that many people don’t know about, and it reminds us that our state has played a role in some truly iconic moments in American culture. They still have statues from "The Wizard of Oz" that are really fun to see in Oconomowoc, WI.