Hetz, of Whitewater, views young age as an asset
By Dave Fidlin
Correspondent
Three candidates — two Democrats and one Republican — with varied backgrounds are vying for the 43rd state Assembly District seat currently held by Andy Jorgensen.
Jorgensen, D-Milton, announced early this year he would not be seeking re-election. With the countdown to the November election fast approaching, the three candidates running for the position have been stepping up campaign efforts.
Allison Hetz, of Whitewater, is running as a Republican and spoke of her candidacy during the public comment portion of the city’s Common Council meeting May 17.
“I’ve been out talking to Whitewater people and have heard their concerns,” said Hetz, who currently serves as the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater’s student body president.
Hetz, 22, also addressed her age, head on, and said she views it as an asset she could bring to state government. She pointed out four of the founding fathers were under the age of 20 when the U.S. was founded.
Don Vruwink, of Milton, also addressed the Whitewater council during the May 17 meeting. During his brief address, he touted a number of personal and professional accomplishments, including 40 years experience as a teacher.
“I’ve been active in this community (Milton) all my life,” said Vruwink, who is running as a Democrat. “I feel that by running for the 43rd District, I’d just extend the Milton community.”
Politically, Vruwink has served multiple terms on the Milton City Council and, more recently, has had a seat on the Milton School Board.
Anissa Welch, also of Milton, is challenging Vruwink on the Democratic platform. She was not in attendance at the recent Whitewater council meeting. She currently serves as Milton’s mayor and previously was an alderwoman.
“I have seen, first-hand, that our state has been taken in a worse direction,” Welch wrote on her campaign website. “I have heard time and time again that our community needs proven, progressive leadership that will fight for us.”
Drawing on her background, Welch on her website said she is an advocate for working class families.
Vruwink and Welch will face off in a Democratic primary election Aug. 9. The top vote getter will run against Hetz in the Nov. 8 general election.
