Lee Snodgrass

Lee Snodgrass is a Democratic politician currently serving as a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly, representing the 52nd Assembly District. Born on February 9, 1969, she has a background in communications and campaign organization, and has been actively involved in political activities at various levels for many years. Snodgrass's career in public service reflects her commitment to her constituents and her advocacy for issues pertinent to Wisconsin residents.

Early life and career

Lee Snodgrass was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, into a family with a background in engineering and healthcare; her father worked as a paper mill engineer, while her mother was a registered nurse. The family relocated to Green Bay, Wisconsin, due to her father's job with James River Paper. Snodgrass completed her secondary education at Preble High School in Green Bay, graduating in 1987. She then pursued higher education at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where she earned a bachelor's degree in English in 1991.

After completing her education, Snodgrass moved to Maryland, where she became engaged to John Ptacek, who also graduated from the University of Wisconsin. In 1995, the couple returned to Wisconsin and settled in Appleton. Snodgrass began her professional career at the Fox River Paper Company, where she worked as a marketing and communications assistant. Her career progressed as she took on the role of project manager at the Allen James Design communications agency from 2006 until 2012. Following this position, she became the director of communications and customer care for the Girl Scouts of the Northwestern Great Lakes, a role that further solidified her expertise in communications and community engagement.

Legislative service

Snodgrass's political involvement began during her college years, where she volunteered for various campaigns, including those of Tammy Baldwin and Russ Feingold. She continued her political engagement by working on presidential campaigns for prominent Democratic candidates such as John Kerry, Barack Obama, and Hillary Clinton. Additionally, she supported local Democratic candidates in the Wisconsin State Assembly, including Appleton assemblymembers Penny Bernard Schaber and Amanda Stuck.

In 2018, Snodgrass was elected chair of the Democratic Party of Outagamie County, Wisconsin, marking a significant step in her political career. Shortly thereafter, she announced her candidacy for the Wisconsin State Senate, aiming to challenge the incumbent Roger Roth in the 19th Senate District. This district included several cities and towns, such as Neenah, Menasha, and parts of Appleton. Her campaign received national attention and financial backing from the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee.

Snodgrass faced a primary challenge from another local Democrat, Dan Grady. With endorsements from organizations like EMILY's List and a substantial fundraising advantage, she won the primary election decisively. However, in the general election, she was ultimately defeated by Roth, receiving approximately 47% of the vote.

Despite this setback, Snodgrass remained active in the Democratic Party and was elected as the 2nd vice chair of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin in 2019. Her leadership role within the party allowed her to continue advocating for Democratic values and organizing efforts across the state.

In 2020, Snodgrass transitioned to a new political campaign, running for a seat in the Wisconsin State Assembly. She successfully secured a position in the 57th Assembly District, where she served until 2025. Following her tenure in that district, she was elected to represent the 52nd Assembly District, where she continues to serve.

Policy focus and district

Throughout her political career, Snodgrass has focused on a range of issues that resonate with her constituents in Wisconsin. Her campaign platforms have consistently included healthcare, education, infrastructure, and environmental concerns. During her 2018 Senate campaign, she emphasized the importance of healthcare access, particularly regarding coverage for pre-existing conditions, prescription drug affordability, and the need for Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act.

Snodgrass has also been a vocal advocate for public education, calling for increased state funding and financial aid for students attending the University of Wisconsin and Wisconsin Technical Colleges. She has supported infrastructure projects aimed at improving the state's roads and transportation systems, recognizing the critical role these investments play in the overall well-being of Wisconsin residents.

Environmental issues have been another focal point of her legislative agenda. Snodgrass has expressed concerns about the environmental impact of large-scale projects, such as the Foxconn development, and has advocated for responsible management of natural resources. She has also called for the repeal of Wisconsin Act 10, which limited collective bargaining rights for public sector unions, arguing that it has contributed to a teacher shortage in the state.

In her current role representing the 52nd Assembly District, Snodgrass continues to engage with her constituents and address their needs. Her background in communications and community service informs her approach to legislation, as she seeks to create policies that reflect the values and priorities of the people she serves. As a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly, she remains committed to advocating for progressive policies that aim to improve the quality of life for all Wisconsin residents.