Miguel Aranda
Associate Director of PreCollege Programs
Democrat
Whitewater
Elected Experience
Whitewater Unified School District Board, vice president, (2021-present)
Q&A with the Candidate
Why should voters send you to congress?
I bring real working-class experience to the decisions that shape our lives. I live the struggles families face, I have worked the jobs too often overlooked, and know what it means to fight for stability and opportunity. I’m running to be a voice for working families who feel Washington has stopped listening. This campaign is about real representation, rooted in lived experience, and making government work for the people who keep our communities running. I will put families first, and fight for a future where everyone has a fair shot at their American Dream.
What is the top issue in your district? How would you address it?
The top issue in our district is the rising cost of living for working families. As a school board member, I see our children struggling, and that reflects how their families are doing. Parents are stretched thin by high costs and a lack of access to good-paying jobs. That’s why our top priority is accessible and affordable childcare. As a working father, my wife and I are fortunate to have community support raising our three children, but many families don’t. Universal childcare gives parents flexibility, allows mothers to continue their careers, and strengthens our economy. When we invest in childcare, we create ripple effects in supporting policy initiatives in public education, universal healthcare, housing, and retirement security. These are policies that lift us all.
What expertise would you bring into congress? How would it help your district?
I grew up poor in a mixed-status family, giving me a real understanding of the challenges working families face. I’m also bringing a clear set of policy priorities such as universal childcare to investing in public education. As the only Spanish-speaking candidate, I can directly connect with a constituency that too often feels unheard and underrepresented. Winning twice as an open Democrat in a conservative-leaning school district, my approach is simple but difficult: be transparent, accessible, and accountable. I listen to constituents, ask for honest feedback, and make hard decisions that serve everyone — not just those who voted for me. That’s how we build trust and deliver results for our district.
Should Congress exert more oversight over the president? Why or why not?
Absolutely. One individual should not have absolute, global influence that could endanger us all and impede our individual rights.
What is your favorite fun Wisconsin history fact?
A new fun history fact, which has been a humbling experience, is that I will be the first Mexican-American on the ballot for Wisconsin's 1st Congressional District. This could not have been done without the support of family, community members, neighbors, and new friends.