Rich challenges Felzkowski in 12th district race

Editor’s note: Andi Rich, the Democratic challenger to incumbent Republican state Sen. Mary Felzkowski in the 12th Senate district, turned down an invitation for a personal interview at The Times, saying she was too busy. She did say she would answer submitted questions in writing, which The Times does not do. She was instead offered a phone interview. She never responded. Below are a few excerpts from her campaign website about her background and issues.

From her bio

“Andi was born and raised in Porterfield, WI, where the outdoors were an essential part of everyday life. Growing up, she spent countless hours swimming in rivers, exploring the woods, and embracing all the beauty that Wisconsin’s Northwoods had to offer. Whether skiing in the winter or kayaking in the summer, Andi’s love for nature was always at the center of her life. She developed a deep appreciation for the environment and understood the importance of preserving these natural resources for future generations.

“Her small-town upbringing instilled in her a set of core values — hard work, accountability, and fairness. 

In the close-knit community of Porterfield, Andi learned the importance of standing by your neighbors, supporting your community, and being a good steward of the land.”

Wake boats

“The environmental damage caused by wake boats on Wisconsin's lakes is well-documented and must be addressed. Andi emphasizes that large wakes contribute to shoreline erosion, harm aquatic ecosystems, and degrade water quality. … The current lack of comprehensive regulation demonstrates how some legislators prioritize industry interests over environmental protection and the will of local communities.”

Sulfide mining

“Sulfide mining poses catastrophic environmental risks.”

PFAS

“The DNR needs the authority to take swift action on PFAS contamination, even before formal standards are set. Following the science and ensuring transparent public disclosure of PFAS testing results are essential to protect citizens’ right to know about environmental hazards.

Medicaid expansion

“Expanding BadgerCare is both a moral imperative and an economic benefit for Wisconsin.”

School choice

“Andi is convinced that public money belongs in public schools, not diverted to private education through voucher programs.”

General philosophy

“The needs of working-class Wisconsinites must come before corporate interests and partisan politics. Andi believes that grassroots advocacy and listening to constituents are fundamental to effective representation. The obstruction of popular initiatives on conservation, healthcare expansion, and education funding by current representatives is unacceptable.”

Richard Moore is the author of “Dark State” and may be reached at richardd3d.substack.com.