Assembly District 56 has a “retiring” incumbent, David “Dave’s not here” Murphy. Last legislative session Dave was all over the board and signed onto to the bad and the good hemp bills, which got us wondering where exactly Dave was… It is hard to WIP the GOP when it comes to hemp, that is for sure. Murphy was around since 2013 and I have spoken to him personally shortly after he authored a Kratom bill…anyways, he is gone…onto the new 56th District dynamics…which is a solid Republican district according to election projections.
The 56th Assembly district of the Wisconsin is one of 99 districts in the Wisconsin State Assembly. Located in east-central Wisconsin, the district comprises much of central and western Outagamie County and part of eastern Waupaca County. It includes the city of New London and the villages of Bear Creek, Black Creek, Hortonville, and Shiocton, and part of the north side of the city of Appleton.
Who are the candidates?
Only one Republican is seeking the seat, Dr. Anthony Phillips, who ran in 2024.
The Dr. Anthony Phillips for the 18th State Senate District Campaign Facebook Page was easy to find and when I reached out to this candidate in 2024 about his stance on marijuana reform he simply replied “I agree with medical marijuana use“.
He was not able to attend the 2024 Pizza, Pot and Politics event I held.
Phillips (R) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrAnthonyPhillips, Website: https://phillipsforwisconsin.com/ and email: anthonyphillips@phillipsforwisconsin.com
VS
Both the Democrats have expressed support for full legalization of cannabis.
The Democrats in the primary are:
Shawna Riley (D) Website: https://www.shawnaforwisconsin.com/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573307207870 Email: riley56forassembly@gmail.com
Riley campaign facebook page stated this: Wisconsin is falling behind.
While neighboring states are generating hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenue from legal cannabis, Wisconsin continues to send our residents, and their money, across state lines.
Legalizing and regulating cannabis is about more than personal freedom. It’s about creating jobs, supporting Wisconsin farmers and small businesses, reducing unnecessary arrests, and generating new revenue that can be invested in our communities.
I support legalizing cannabis, expunging the records of people convicted of low level, nonviolent marijuana offenses, and using the tax revenue to invest in public schools, mental health services, addiction treatment, infrastructure, and property tax relief.
It’s time to stop pretending cannabis doesn’t exist. Let’s regulate it responsibly, keep the revenue here in Wisconsin, and make those dollars work for the people of our state. Not Illinois or Michigan.
Shawna Riley also mentioned marijuana reform in her newspaper “debate” with the other Democrat, here is that link for your review in its entirety: Interviewed: the 56th Assembly District democratic candidates - Waupaca County Post
Question 2: Shared Revenue and Local Government Funding
Wisconsin’s shared revenue system is a major source of funding for cities, villages, towns, and counties, but many local governments still say they struggle to pay for basic services without raising property taxes or cutting programs. What changes, if any, would you make to the Wisconsin state’s shared revenue system to better support local communities while ensuring accountability for taxpayer dollars?
Riley: We have to completely repeal all voucher legislation including Wisconsin statutes 118.60, and 119.23, and any other local municipalities statutes. I would draft legislation ending new enrollment in voucher programs, phase out existing vouchers, redirect voucher funds into public school equalization aid, special education aid, rural school aid, and require that taxpayer-funded schools meet the same transparency, accountability, and admissions standards as public schools if they continue receiving public funds for students with disabilities.
I’m also in favor of cannabis legalization. It’s estimated that it could generate over $258 million annually in Wisconsin by 2030. Legalization could also create thousands of jobs in cultivation, processing, retail, and testing. Reduce law enforcement and court costs associated with marijuana possession offenses. Keep consumer spending in Wisconsin instead of neighboring states, and most importantly give cancer and chronically ill patients an option of natural medicine. When my daughter was on cancer treatments she was prescribed multiple pain medications to help manage her suffering. I understand the importance of making sure patients have access to the medications they need while also supporting responsible prescribing practices and addressing the opioid crisis in our communities. Cannabis needs to be explored as a pathway to healing.
Abitz: While attending regular village and town board meetings across District 56, I see local governments struggling to fund roads, ambulance services, water service infrastructure, internet access, culverts, winter plowing, and more.
Understanding how we got to this point is key. Data from Wisconsin Towns Association in 2023 states, “In 1911, 90% of state revenue was directed to local governments. Today, less than 10% of state revenue is directed to local governments. Since 2003, if county and municipal aids had kept up with inflation it would be funded with $1.5 billion, 100.7% more than is available today.” The budget in 2003 was Republican led and heavily debated, Governor Jim Doyle signed with partial vetos in place. During the 20 year freeze, ignoring and delaying funding led us to where we are today. Catching up. A serious and long-term revamp in budgeting is vital.
and
Grace Abitz (D) Website: https://www.graceabitz.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568978935410
The strategy here is for stakeholders and voters to put the early pressure on the Republican and start building a relationship with him.
