The race to be the Democratic candidate for Lieutenant Governor features a number of qualified candidates, all of whom would likely serve the state well if elected to office. The two front-runners – Senator Spencer Coggs and Representative Tom Nelson – both have unique qualifications for the office.
Senator Coggs has represented Milwaukee as the 6th District State Senator since 2003, and currently serves on the Joint Legislative Council and as chair of the Committee on Labor, Elections, and Urban Affairs, among other committees. Prior to his election to the Senate, Senator Coggs served in the State assembly for 20 years. He also has been on the Executive Committee of the National Conference of State Legislatures and the Center for Policy Alternatives, as has been the President of the National labor Caucus of State Legislators.
Representative Nelson has been a member of the State Assembly since 2004, when he was the only Democrat in Wisconsin to defeat a Republican incumbent. He was elected the Assembly Majority leader in 2008, and currently serves as Chair of the Committee on Rules, in addition to serving on the Committee on Employment Relations and the Joint Legislative Council.
Both candidates are lifelong residents of Wisconsin, and all both would be effective Lieutenant Governors. However, we feel Representative Nelson stands out as the best choice. While Senator Coggs has been an outstanding representative for the people of Milwaukee, his leadership in the Senate is too valuable to lose. His success in advocating for the issues that most affect Milwaukee would be sorely missed should he leave the Senate.
Representative Nelson has demonstrated a strong commitment to Wisconsin families during his time in the State Legislature, and he has proven that he is willing to work hard both in Madison and out on the campaign trail. Ultimately, that work ethic gives Democrats the best chance of retaining the governorship this Fall.
There is too much at stake this Fall to take this Tuesday’s primary election lightly. Mayor Barrett needs an energetic, passionate, hard working partner in his race for Governor. Representative Tom Nelson fits that bill and is the best choice for Lieutenant Governor.
Supporters of Tom Nelson for Lt. Governor
