To the editor:
Politics matter. Voting matters. If you have not yet, go to myvote.wi.gov. check
out your ballot. Study your candidates and investigate the three constitutional amendments on the ballot. https://www.wpr.org/news/what-­to-­kno­w-wisconsin-november-2026-referendums. Then VOTE.

It can be challenging to decide for whom to vote.  The people of Wisconsin’s Third Congressional District deserve representation grounded in our values ­- hard
work, accountability, and respect for the people and communities that make this region strong. We expect our elected officials to uphold these values, and carry themselves in a way in which we can be proud, regardless of party affiliation.

For the past four years our district has been represented by someone who does not uphold our values. Derrick Van Orden’s behavior as a congressman has been embarrassing and unacceptable; whether it is carrying a fully loaded handgun through a security checkpoint at an Iowa airport or screaming at teenage Senate pages lying on the floor of the Capitol rotunda taking late­night photos, calling them jackasses and pieces of sh##. His angry outbursts and online insults are legendary, and represent behaviors that would get your 12­year-­old grounded. or an adult terminated from a job. Set his voting record aside for a moment, and ask yourself, “Is this the kind of person we want representing us?”

Rebecca Cooke is all the right stuff; smart, hardworking, and thoughtful. She holds a deep understanding of life in our communities, because she is living it. She understands our farms and the challenges the agricul­ tural community faces. She knows how vital our social services are, not just when times are tough, but every day. She is an experienced businesswoman, financially savvy, and has the tenacity to lead.

Our democracy is strug­ gling. Now more than ever, we need to send serious, thoughtful people to Washington, DC, people who will roll up their sleeves, work with colleagues of all stripes, and find real solutions to the challenges we face. Rebecca Cooke is that candidate.

Mark and Jean Ritzinger
River Falls