Saturday August 10, 2024
Nasra Wehelie, Somali-American Alder and candidate for Wisconsin’s 80th Assembly District, aims to become the first Muslim woman in the Wisconsin State Legislature. (Photo credit: Nasra Wehelie Campaign)
MADISON, Wisconsin (HOL) — Madison Alder Nasra Wehelie could make history. The 54-year-old is challenging incumbent State Rep. Mike Bare in a closely watched Democratic primary for Wisconsin's 80th Assembly District. If elected, Wehelie would become the first Somali and Muslim woman to serve in the Wisconsin State Legislature, a milestone that has garnered significant attention.
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Wehelie, who has represented Madison's District 4 since 2020, is running on a platform focused on increasing investment in public education and promoting equity. "Our education system is lagging because we're not investing enough," Wehelie said. "Taxpayers will see the value in making this necessary sacrifice for our future." Her campaign has received endorsements from local leaders, including Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway.Mike Bare, D-Verona, who has held the 80th Assembly District seat since January 2023, is a former aide to U.S. Senator Russ Feingold and the owner of The Biergarten at Olbrich Park. He has been a vocal advocate for progressive tax policies and has secured endorsements from key Democratic figures such as Governor Tony Evers and U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin. Bare has focused his campaign on managing Wisconsin's projected $3 billion state surplus, advocating for a balanced approach that includes tax relief and funding for public services.
Both candidates align on several progressive key social issues. They also back the elimination of Wisconsin's 20-week abortion ban.
The race takes place in a newly redrawn 80th Assembly District, which now includes a larger portion of Madison, making it a Democratic stronghold with about 73% of voters leaning toward the party. The primary winner will face GOP candidate Robert Relph, who is running unopposed in the Republican primary.