Margaret Arney

Margaret Arney is a Democratic politician and nonprofit consultant currently serving as a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly, representing the 18th Assembly district. She has been in office since 2025 and is also a member of the Wauwatosa City Council, where she has served since 2022. Arney holds the distinction of being the first African American city council member in Wauwatosa's history. Her background includes extensive experience in education, social services, and community activism, which has shaped her approach to public service.

Early life and career

Margaret Michele Arney, born Margaret Michele Tully on June 17, 1969, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was raised in the same city where she would later embark on her political career. Arney completed her secondary education at Rufus King High School, graduating in 1987. Following high school, she pursued higher education at Harvard University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in government studies in 1991. This academic foundation laid the groundwork for her future endeavors in public service and community engagement.

After completing her undergraduate studies, Arney continued her education at the University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration, obtaining a master's degree in social service administration in 1994. Her graduate education equipped her with the skills necessary to address social issues and contribute to community development. Following her studies, Arney remained in Chicago, taking on a role with Chicago Commons, a nonprofit organization focused on community development and social services. She worked there until 2000, when she returned to Milwaukee.

Upon her return to Milwaukee, Arney engaged in various roles within the nonprofit sector over the next decade. She worked in fundraising and market research for several local organizations, including the YWCA and the Milwaukee Art Museum. Her experience in these positions helped her develop a deep understanding of the challenges faced by nonprofit organizations and the communities they serve. In 2010, she joined Cardinal Stritch University, where she administered the African American Leadership Program, a position she held for ten years. During this time, she also began teaching a course on social work at Concordia University Wisconsin, further contributing to the education and development of future social workers. Additionally, she worked as a consultant for the African American Leadership Alliance of Milwaukee, reinforcing her commitment to community leadership and social justice.

Legislative service

Arney's political career began in 2010 when she made her first attempt to secure an elected position on the Wauwatosa City Council. Although she advanced to the general election after placing second in the nonpartisan primary, she ultimately lost to her opponent, Kathleen Causier. Following this initial foray into politics, Arney remained active in local civic affairs, participating in various community initiatives and organizations.

In 2016, she co-founded Tosa Together, a social justice group aimed at fostering community engagement and addressing social issues in Wauwatosa. By 2022, she had taken on a leadership role as the president of the Wauwatosa Neighborhood Association Council, further solidifying her presence in local governance and community advocacy. That same year, Kathleen Causier announced her retirement from the city council, prompting Arney to run for the 2nd district alderperson position. This time, she faced no opposition and took office in April 2022, marking a significant milestone as Wauwatosa's first African American member of the Common Council.

In 2024, following the election of her state representative, Evan Goyke, to the position of city attorney of Milwaukee, Arney announced her candidacy for the Wisconsin State Assembly to succeed him in the 18th Assembly district. The district, which encompasses the southeast corner of Wauwatosa and several neighborhoods on Milwaukee's west side, was one of the few Assembly districts that remained unchanged by the 2024 redistricting act. Recognizing the district's strong Democratic leaning, Arney faced a primary challenge from Angela Kennedy, a perennial candidate. She won the primary decisively and subsequently achieved a significant victory in the general election, defeating her Republican opponent with a substantial majority.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly, Arney represents a district characterized by its diverse communities and strong Democratic values. Her legislative priorities are informed by her extensive background in social services, education, and community advocacy. Arney's work is likely to focus on issues pertinent to her constituents, including social justice, education reform, and community development. Her experience in nonprofit management and leadership positions equips her with the insights necessary to address the needs of her district effectively.

Arney's dual role as a city council member and state legislator allows her to advocate for her constituents at multiple levels of government. Her commitment to community engagement and social equity is evident in her previous work and her current legislative initiatives. As she continues her service in the Wisconsin State Assembly, Arney aims to leverage her background and experiences to foster positive change within her district and the broader Wisconsin community.

In summary, Margaret Arney's journey from a local activist to a state legislator reflects her dedication to public service and community empowerment. With a strong educational foundation and a wealth of experience in nonprofit leadership, she is well-positioned to address the challenges facing her constituents and contribute to the ongoing development of her community.