Candidates in the Democratic primary for Wisconsin’s Third Congressional District participated in a debate at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse this week. Universally, the candidates emphasized the importance of talking to rural citizens and finding common ground with conservative-leaning voters.
While the candidates did not criticize one another, they took aim at presumptive Republican nominee Derrick Van Orden. State Sen. Brad Pfaff (D-Onalaska) labeled Van Orden as a “threat to democracy” during his closing statement. Similarly, Eau Claire-area businesswoman Rebecca Cooke said that Van Orden was a member of the “radical right” and that “John McCain-style Republicans” have supported her campaign.
The candidates were asked about how they would secure funding to address PFAS contamination. Pfaff said that there should be a federal standard for PFAS levels and that the federal government should provide funding to both homeowners and small businesses who face PFAS contamination. Cooke similarly said she wants to pass federal legislation similar to the CLEAR Act, which would require the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to establish standards for PFAS. La Crosse Alderman Mark Neumann said he supported investments in clean water and former CIA officer Deb McGrath said that a federal response was warranted.
Candidates also described their response to the recent overturning of Roe v. Wade. Cooke said that Congress should codify the right to an abortion into federal law; Neumann agreed, saying that abortion is an issue of body sovereignty. McGrath and Pfaff each shared personal stories and said that the issue of abortion is a personal decision.
Candidates were also asked if President Joe Biden should run for another term, although none provided a direct answer. Pfaff praised Biden for his work on COVID-19 vaccinations and U.S.-Russia relations, but called for “more work to be done” on inflation and drug costs. Cooke said that she supported term limits to restrict the influence of special interests.
