Fred Clark
Candidate for Congress
Democrat
Bayfield
Elected Experience
Wisconsin State Assembly (2009-2014)
Q&A with the Candidate
Why should voters send you to congress?
I’m the only Democrat in this race with the resources, the support, the experience and the ability to win back those rural voters that we need to win. My broad base of experience living and working in rural Wisconsin and my experience as an elected representative will ensure that I am ready to represent the people of northern Wisconsin in Congress on day pne.
What is the top issue in your district? How would you address it?
A growing number of people cannot afford the basic costs of living and are falling farther and farther behind. In the last 50 years the costs of housing, healthcare, childcare, transportation, and higher education have all risen much faster than wages. Northern Wisconsin families just can’t keep up. Families who earn more than the Federal Poverty Level or $32,500 but less than $100,000 - true working and middle class families - are falling behind because the traditional safety net doesn’t help them. We'll need a broad- based, multi-faceted approach to affordability that includes tax reform, ensuring access to affordable health care, financial support for families with children, college and tech school tuition support, affordable housing, and meaningful anti-trust regulation and enforcement. That's just the beginning!
What expertise would you bring into congress? How would it help your district?
As a forester and land manager I’ve spent years working outdoors in all seasons throughout Wisconsin. As a long time business owner and employer, organizational executive, and volunteer leader, I’ve led teams and helped people solve problems and perform at their best. As a rural legislator, I’ve worked hard to tackle challenges at home and support people from all walks of life, and politics. My broad base of experience living and working in rural Wisconsin and my experience as an elected representative will ensure that I am ready to represent the people of Northern Wisconsin in Congress on Day 1.
Should Congress exert more oversight over the president? Why or why not?
In 2025 the Trump Administration consistently violated the clear language of court orders, engaged in an unprecedented pattern of contempt of courts, verbally attacked judges, and fired agency Inspectors General and other officials who simply tried to do their job consistent with their oath to the Constitution. Trump officials used the power of government to threaten and silence voices of dissent, clear First Amendment violations. The Republican congressional majority has, time after time, refused the constitutional power to check abuses of power. In Congress I’ll use Congressional authority to investigate corruption, violations of law by this administration, pass legislation to further limit excessive presidential power, and reassert the role of Congress as a co-equal branch of government. We aren’t a monarchy — we’re a constitutional democracy.
What is your favorite fun Wisconsin history fact?
Wisconsin is the number one producer of paper, cranberries, and ginseng in America, and Wisconsin's 7th Congressional District is home to businesses producing all three of those important products!