90th Assembly District candidate appears at forum

GREEN BAY, WI – (WGBW) – 9to5 Wisconsin, an organization that says they’re advocating for working families held a forum for the candidates for the 90th Assembly District last night.

Democratic Candidate Amaad Rivera-Wagner attended. Republican Jessica Henderson was invited but did not attend.

Christin Thor, Executive State Director of 9to5 Wisconsin, emphasized the importance of amplifying working families’ voices in political conversations. “These forums will empower our community members to hold candidates accountable and ensure that their needs are prioritized in the legislative agenda,” Thor said.

Single candidate forum

Even though only one candidate was in attendance, the organizers asked questions of Rivera-Wagner. 

The questions focused primarily on what Rivera-Wagner would do to represent the diversity in the 90th Assembly District, which is 60% white, non-hispanic, and 40% persons of color.

“One of the ways that we can showcase, how we’re going to be, is that before we are even in the position, we should see what people have done before,” said Rivera-Wagner. “First and foremost is showing up to places like this that reflect the diversity of our community!”

Rivera-Wagner listed what he thinks are the primary issues facing the 90th Assembly District:

1. Housing availability for every income bracket
2. Affordable, accessible childcare
3. Mental Health services and support for issues.
4. Fully funding public schools
5. Making the area walkable and safe.

Rivera-Wagner mentioned several times throughout the evening representing the diversity of the 90th Assembly District and championing its needs from housing to paid family and medical leave to encouraging voters remain involved and engaged.

“I plan on being a champion for that. And I plan on doing that in one very specific way, bringing you all with me to Madison,” said Rivera-Wagner. “This is not just about me being a champion for you. This is me being a facilitator of your demanding the legislature be more reflective of your needs.”

Ultimately, Rivera-Wagner said he is running to be a Wisconsin Assemblyman to champion the policies and changes that would make life better for his mother and people like her. 

“I believe in our democracy. Whether I win or lose an election, I believe in our democracy that everyone gets a voice in it,” Rivera-Wagner said.  “I believe in our democracy, regardless of who wins the election. That people should be fighting for the policies and rights for everyone whether they vote for you or not.”

The forum for the 90th Assembly District was co-hosted by Green Bay Asian Allies United and Wisconsin Early Childhood Action Needed.

More election information

The Recombobulation Area and Civic Media’s 2024 Wisconsin State Legislature Voter Guide has the race for the 30th State Senate District and the 90th Assembly District solid Ds.  

See the guide here.