Shelia Stubbs
State representative
Democrat
Madison 
Elected Experience
Wisconsin State Assembly (2019-present); Dane County Board (2006-2022)
Q&A with the Candidate
Why should voters elect you?
My extensive career in public service over the past 24 years, specializing in a wide variety of issue areas, including public safety, finance, and health and human needs, has demonstrated both my ability to enact sound policy and my dedication to representing the voices and needs of my constituents. As one of the only Democratic lead authors on a bill to pass this legislative session in a divided government, I understand what it takes to work effectively across the aisle while remaining true to my Democratic values. Voters should elect me because I work diligently to introduce and pass quality legislation and continuously advocate for the state of Wisconsin to invest in initiatives, development, and programming that benefit the residents of the 78th Assembly District.
What is the top issue in your district? How would you address it?
The top issue in my district is affordability. My constituents are increasingly facing a shortage of affordable housing and rising costs for childcare, groceries, and virtually every other necessity. Our broken school funding formula is forcing my constituents to choose between properly funding their public schools and keeping their property taxes stable. Many residents of the 78th Assembly District, from working families to seniors on fixed incomes, are finding it difficult to make ends meet. Both as a Dane County Board supervisor and a state representative, I have worked hard to make public investments in programs that promote financial stability for my constituents and connect them with resources. I will continue to champion initiatives that combat poverty, lower costs, and promote economic opportunity for all.
How should Wisconsin government operate differently than in the past?
The decisions we make in our state Capitol are supposed to be made in the best interest of all Wisconsinites, but for far too long, the most vulnerable members of our communities have been overlooked or haven’t been given a seat at the table at all. Our Wisconsin government must do a better job of representing and prioritizing those who have been left behind. We must do a better job of making our state a place where everyone, regardless of background, can live safely and comfortably and reach their full potential. I have always stood by my values of equity, inclusion, and civil rights, and I will continue giving a voice to those who have historically gone unheard.
What is your favorite fun Wisconsin history fact?
My favorite fun Wisconsin history fact is that Beloit, my hometown, has an Underground Railroad site! Growing up in South Central Wisconsin, I had the privilege of being surrounded by history. From the Underground Railroad site that paved the way to freedom for enslaved people, to the Native American mounds on the Beloit College campus, I was immersed and instructed from a young age in the stories of the many diverse peoples who call Wisconsin home. I believe that honoring and acknowledging that history is an integral part of who we are as Wisconsinites. Whether our ancestors are indigenous to this land, immigrated here, or came here from enslavement, we all have a role to play in shaping and stewarding the future of our state.