Ryan Spaude

Ryan Spaude is an American lawyer and Democratic politician currently serving as a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly, representing the 89th Assembly District. He began his term in January 2025 after winning a competitive election in the newly drawn district that encompasses parts of the Green Bay area, including his hometown of Ashwaubenon. Spaude has a background in law, having previously worked as an assistant district attorney in Brown County, Wisconsin, where he focused on prosecuting cases related to drunk driving.

Early life and career

Ryan Spaude was born in Green Bay, Wisconsin, in March 1994. He grew up in Little Suamico, a small town in the region, where he was raised by his parents, Scott Spaude, a welder, and Amy Spaude, a dentist. Spaude completed his secondary education at Oconto Falls High School, graduating in 2012. Following high school, he pursued higher education at Princeton University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in 2016.

After completing his undergraduate studies, Spaude gained experience in the political arena through various internships and positions. He interned for Congressman Reid Ribble, a Republican representative from Wisconsin, and later served as a staff assistant for U.S. Senator Joni Ernst from Iowa. These roles provided him with insights into the workings of government and legislative processes.

In the fall of 2017, Spaude transitioned to a research role at Public Opinion Strategies, where he contributed to understanding public sentiment on various issues. His career path took a significant turn in 2019 when he decided to further his education by attending the University of Wisconsin Law School in Madison. He completed his Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree in 2022 and subsequently took on the role of assistant district attorney in Brown County. In this capacity, Spaude specialized in prosecuting cases involving drunk driving, reflecting his commitment to public safety and justice.

Legislative service

In 2024, the Wisconsin Legislature enacted a new redistricting plan that significantly altered the political landscape in the Green Bay area. This redistricting resulted in the creation of the 89th Assembly District, which included Spaude's home in Ashwaubenon. Notably, the new district did not have an incumbent legislator, presenting an opportunity for Spaude to enter the political arena as a candidate.

In April 2024, he announced his candidacy for the newly established 89th Assembly District as a Democrat. Spaude faced no opposition in the Democratic primary, allowing him to focus on the general election. The general election was highly competitive, with Spaude running against Patrick Buckley, the chair of the Brown County Board. The 89th Assembly District was identified as one of the most politically competitive districts in Wisconsin, attracting significant campaign investments from both major political parties.

Ultimately, Spaude won the general election by a narrow margin, securing his position in the Wisconsin State Assembly. He was inaugurated on January 6, 2025, marking the beginning of his legislative career.

During his time in the Assembly, Spaude has been involved in key budget discussions and legislative initiatives. In the 2025–27 budget-writing process, he worked alongside other legislators to advocate for the funding of the state Veteran Housing and Recovery Program. Governor Tony Evers had proposed a budget that included $2 million for this program, which operates facilities in Chippewa Falls, Green Bay, and Union Grove. However, the proposed funding was removed by Republican legislators. In response, Spaude, along with Senator Jamie Wall and Representative Amaad Rivera-Wagner, sought to reinstate the funding to support the program and its facilities.

In August 2025, Spaude co-sponsored legislation aimed at regulating cryptocurrency ATMs. This proposed legislation included several provisions designed to protect consumers, such as requiring ATM operators to issue warnings about potential fraud, refunding victims of cryptocurrency scams, and providing contact information for authorities. Additionally, the legislation sought to impose transaction limits on cryptocurrency ATMs and grant law enforcement the ability to track transactions, reflecting Spaude's commitment to consumer protection and regulatory oversight in emerging technologies.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly, Ryan Spaude represents the 89th Assembly District, which includes parts of the Green Bay area, a region characterized by its diverse community and economic activities. The district's demographic and political landscape is shaped by a mix of urban and suburban populations, making it a focal point for various legislative initiatives.

Spaude's policy focus encompasses a range of issues, reflecting the needs and interests of his constituents. His background in law and experience as an assistant district attorney inform his approach to public safety and criminal justice reform. His advocacy for funding the Veteran Housing and Recovery Program demonstrates his commitment to supporting veterans and addressing their housing needs, a critical issue in many communities.

Additionally, Spaude's involvement in regulating cryptocurrency ATMs highlights his responsiveness to contemporary economic challenges and the need for consumer protection in the digital age. By addressing issues related to fraud and financial security, he aims to create a safer environment for residents engaging with new financial technologies.

As a member of the Democratic Party, Spaude aligns with broader party priorities, including social justice, public health, and economic equity. His legislative efforts reflect a dedication to addressing the pressing issues facing his constituents while navigating the complexities of a politically competitive district.

In summary, Ryan Spaude's journey from a small-town upbringing to a legislative role in the Wisconsin State Assembly illustrates his commitment to public service and advocacy for his community. His educational background, legal experience, and focus on critical issues position him as a significant figure in Wisconsin politics, particularly within the context of the 89th Assembly District.