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A comparative look at the candidates for Wisconsin State Assembly District 72, Incumbent Representative Scott Krug, and his challenger, Suzanne Campbell.
By Laura Bergh
Each election year WFHR interviews many of the candidates that matter to you in Central Wisconsin. To that end Incumbent Representative in Wisconsin State Assembly District 72, Scott Krug, and their challenger Suzanne Campbell, took turns sitting down with James J. Malouf on Mid-Day Magazine to field questions relevant to the upcoming election in an effort to inform you, the voter
On November 1st Representative Scott Krug took part in this candidate interview with host James J. Malouf at WFHR studios. The interview opened with a question to Krug about his background. Krug described his start in Law Enforcement after college, and how it being the wrong fit for him led him to a job in legislation instead.
On October 10th Suzanne Campbell came into WFHR studios to take part in this interview on Mid-Day Magazine with James J. Malouf. The interview opened with a question about her background. Campbell is a Wisconsin Rapids local, and loves this area. She has raised children here, and is now a grandmother.
When asked about the motivation that drove Krug to become involved in politics, he recalled a pivotal 4th grade field trip that planted the idea in his mind. Krug stated that he really made the decision to get involved in 2010 in the fallout from the recession. His motivation during that time was to get taxes lowered.
When asked why she decided to get involved in this run for office, Campbell said it has nothing to do with her. She understands that what she does for the people of the district is far more important than herself. She has come to view herself as an “avatar” for the people to be their voice in Madison.
Krug feels that his experience as a father, husband, and representative make him uniquely qualified. He also pointed to his experiences in the Wisconsin State Assembly District 72 seat since 2010 to give him clarity on who is “telling the truth.” He expressed his belief in being a well-rounded candidate and feels that is necessary to get the job done.
Campbell responded to the question by pointing to her experience working in Credit Unions. She described working in credit unions as focused on the needs of the public, and feels that is key. She has already been working towards public goals, and finds this to be a natural path for her.
Malouf then asked about how Krug’s work experience helped him in his job as a representative. Krug pointed to his variety of jobs in customer service and general interaction with the Wisconsin public. He believes the skills learned in those jobs have helped him understand what motivates others, and find compromises that work for everyone.
Malouf then asked specifically about Campbell’s work experience. When in the credit union Campbell held several different positions, but was always working toward the goal of the public she served. That focus and experience will be vital in this position if she is elected.
Krug told Malouf that he is passionate about feeling that he is a true voice for the district. He pointed to projects such as White Sands, and ridding our lakes of blue-green algae. Krug specifically pointed to the need to work together regardless of politics to accomplish real work for Wisconsinites. He then specifically discussed the need to protect retirees who choose to stay in Wisconsin from feeling the need to move.
When Campbell was asked about what she is most passionate about in this campaign she mentioned a woman’s right to choose. She believes strongly that this is one of the most important things that the legislature should tackle after the election. Then she mentioned making sure that protections for LGBTQIA+ Wisconsinites get put in place as well. She stated that she has a non-binary child and would like to know that they will have the same protections as everyone else. She ended on the important reminder that we are all going to be living here together after this election.
When asked about what concerns him most, Krug pointed to what he is hearing when talking to constituents in Wisconsin State Assembly District 72. He hears a lot of concern about the economy, and high prices. Krug said that he plans to do all he can from his seat to alleviate some of that pressure. He also pointed to a need to discuss how immigration affects local governments to help local residents.
Campbell’s biggest concerns include the economy. She stated that it is heavy on everyone’s mind in Wisconsin State Assembly District 72. Campbell wants to make progress in moving the minimum wage to help those families that are struggling.
Malouf then stated that the public is generally fed up with partisan politics, and asked how Krug feels about that statement, and how he will work across party lines to get work done. Krug agreed with the sentiment, he too is exhausted by partisan politics. He said that he plans to continue to encourage bipartisan work for the people of Assembly District 72.
When asked how important working in a bipartisan fashion is for her, Campbell said that it is the most important. She said not just if she is elected, but for everyone in the district just living. We live bipartisan lives, so our government should reflect that too.
When asked to define the district, Krug simply said “it’s home.” Krug is a lifelong resident within the district, and has lived in a few different areas of the district in his adult life. He points to this district being where he’s raising his own kids. In closing Krug stated that he feels his record speaks for itself and will make the argument for his re-election. To listen to this interview in full you can do so here. For more information on Representative Krug’s campaign you can visit his website here.
Campbell described Wisconsin State Assembly District 72 by saying it is the most beautiful in the state. She pointed to the district being rural, with Wisconsin Rapids being the biggest town within the district. Campbell expressed a pride in the diversity of the area in every area of diversity and hopes to be able to build on it. In closing Campbell pointed to the division present in the political landscape, and her desire to change it. She wants to be able to build, come together, and accomplish work for everyone in the district. If you would like to listen to this interview in full you can do so here. For more information on Suzanne Campbell you can visit her campaign Facebook page here.
