Vote for Knoke

This letter to the editor, by Kerry Kittel, appeared in the Hudson Star Observer on October 15, 2026.

One of the greatest strengths of America’s government is that ordinary people choose their representatives. Voters should research the candidates, show up on election day, and choose the best person for the job. The people they elect have an even greater responsibility, and it starts with showing up to represent their constituents.

Shannon Zimmerman is the theoretical representative for Wisconsin’s 30th Assembly District. I use the word theoretical because Zimmerman has missed 25% of the floor sessions, 225 votes, and three meetings of the powerful Joint Finance Committee, his only committee assignment, during the 2025-26 legislative session.

Anyone reading this would be fired for skipping 25% of their work days. We all are Zimmerman’s employers. Why would we give a two-year contract extension to someone who cares so little about actually doing their job?

Voters should also understand who is paying to allow Zimmerman to make an occasional visit to Madison. Three billionaire donors have spent nearly $25 million, and counting, in Wisconsin races. Zimmerman’s share of the loot, so far, is $1.3 million dollars. Only 1.8% of his money comes from individual donors. It is clear who Zimmerman will really represent if voters make the mistake of electing him again.

Kevin Knoke is the best person to represent the 30th Assembly District. He certainly is the people’s candidate, with over 70% of his funding coming from individual donors. As a teacher and veteran, Kevin has been showing up for work his entire life.

We can depend on Kevin Knoke to show up and work hard to move both western Wisconsin and our entire state forward. We can also trust him to represent the people in the 30th Assembly District and not a tiny group of wealthy donors. Vote for Kevin Knoke on Nov. 3.