VFA Endorses Candidates Ahead of Wisconsin Primary Races

By Blake Jackson

Volunteers for Agriculture (VFA), the political action committee of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, has announced its endorsements for several candidates competing in Wisconsin’s partisan primary elections for the state Senate and Assembly. The endorsements come ahead of the August 11 primary election.

The endorsement process began at the county Farm Bureau level, where local members met with candidates to discuss their backgrounds, priorities, and positions on agricultural issues. Members also asked questions and shared their feedback with the VFA Committee, which used the information to determine its endorsements.

“Our grassroots members believe agriculture should have a seat at the table throughout the entire election process, including during the primary," said VFA Committee Chair Austin Vandertie.

"Today’s endorsement announcements provide an opportunity to elevate the candidates running in contested primaries who understand agriculture and will advocate for Wisconsin farm families.”

For the state Senate, VFA endorsed Ellen Schutt, a cattle producer and former state representative for Assembly District 31.

Schutt, who currently serves as executive director of the Wisconsin FFA Foundation, is seeking election to represent Wisconsin’s 11th Senate District.

The organization also endorsed four candidates for the state Assembly:

• Mark Born, the incumbent representative for the 37th Assembly District, was recognized for working closely with the Wisconsin Farm Bureau while serving as chairman of the Joint Committee on Finance and for maintaining strong relationships with farmers in his district.
• Chanz Green, seeking re-election in the 74th Assembly District, earned support for his work on agricultural and forestry initiatives, including legislation aimed at encouraging sustainable aviation fuel development and addressing wildlife damage.
• Kevin Krentz, a Waushara County dairy farmer and former Farm Bureau leader, is running to represent the 57th Assembly District.
• Bill Oemichen, a law professor, UW-Extension educator, and agricultural policy advocate, is running for the 50th Assembly District.

VFA said it plans to announce additional endorsements for Wisconsin’s general election in the coming months.

Photo Credit: wisconsin-farm-bureau