Mary Felzkowski

Mary Felzkowski is a prominent American politician and businesswoman, currently serving as a member of the Wisconsin State Senate, representing the 12th district. A member of the Republican Party, she has been in office since 2021 and has held various leadership roles, including being elected as the president of the Wisconsin Senate in 2025. Felzkowski's political career began in the Wisconsin State Assembly, where she served for eight years prior to her election to the Senate. Her legislative focus includes issues such as medical cannabis and Medicaid expansion, reflecting her engagement with both local and statewide concerns.

Early life and career

Mary Felzkowski was born Mary Jean Behling on September 25, 1963. She grew up in northern Wisconsin, where she completed her secondary education at Tomahawk High School. Following her graduation, she pursued higher education at the University of Wisconsin–River Falls, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance and Economics. This academic background laid the groundwork for her future endeavors in both business and politics.

In addition to her political career, Felzkowski is a successful businesswoman. She is the owner of CIS Insurance Group, a business located in Tomahawk, Wisconsin. Her experience in the insurance industry has provided her with insights into economic issues and the challenges faced by small businesses, which she has drawn upon during her time in public office.

Felzkowski's political journey began in earnest in November 2012 when she was elected to the Wisconsin State Assembly as a Republican. She succeeded Tom Tiffany, who had moved on to the Wisconsin State Senate. During her tenure in the Assembly, Felzkowski became known for her active participation in legislative matters and her leadership capabilities. She was appointed as the assistant majority leader during the 2019-2020 session, a role that allowed her to influence party strategy and legislative priorities.

Felzkowski's political identity has evolved over the years. She was known as Mary Czaja until her second marriage in 2016, after which she adopted the name Mary Felzkowski. This change reflects both her personal life and her commitment to her new identity as a public servant.

Legislative service

Mary Felzkowski's legislative service began in the Wisconsin State Assembly, where she served for eight years. Her time in the Assembly was marked by her advocacy on various issues, including healthcare and economic development. Felzkowski has been a vocal supporter of medical cannabis, advocating for its legalization in Wisconsin. She has also taken a stance against the expansion of Medicaid, reflecting a commitment to her party's principles regarding healthcare reform.

In 2020, Felzkowski transitioned to the Wisconsin State Senate after the incumbent senator, Tom Tiffany, was elected to Congress. She announced her candidacy for the Senate seat and faced no opposition in the Republican primary. In the general election, she successfully defeated her Democratic opponent, Ed Vocke, thereby securing her position in the Senate.

Since her election to the Senate, Felzkowski has continued to play an active role in legislative affairs. Her leadership capabilities were recognized when she was elected as the president of the Wisconsin Senate in 2025, making her the first woman to hold this position in the state's history. This role places her at the forefront of legislative discussions and decision-making processes, allowing her to influence the direction of state policy.

Felzkowski's tenure in the Senate has not been without controversy. In August 2024, while serving as co-chair of the state's Special Committee on State-Tribal Relations, she made statements that were widely criticized for equating the Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa to "terrorists" in the context of a territorial dispute. This incident led to significant backlash, including a proclamation from the Lac du Flambeau Band that banished her from their reservation. Such events highlight the complexities and challenges that can arise in the realm of public service, particularly when dealing with sensitive issues involving tribal relations.

Following the 2024 Wisconsin Senate elections, Felzkowski's leadership was further solidified when she was elected as the Senate president. This position is significant, as it places her in a key role in shaping the legislative agenda and facilitating discussions among lawmakers. However, her tenure has also seen her take positions that diverge from party consensus; notably, she voted against the bipartisan state budget for the 2025-2027 period, making her the first Senate president in Wisconsin's history to do so.

Policy focus and district

Mary Felzkowski represents Wisconsin's 12th Senate district, which encompasses a large area of northern Wisconsin. This region is characterized by its rural landscape and diverse communities, presenting unique challenges and opportunities for its residents. As a legislator, Felzkowski has focused on issues that resonate with her constituents, including economic development, healthcare, and education.

Her advocacy for medical cannabis reflects a growing interest in alternative healthcare options among her constituents. Felzkowski has been active in promoting legislation aimed at legalizing medical cannabis in Wisconsin, recognizing the potential benefits it could offer to individuals with certain medical conditions. This stance aligns with a broader national trend toward the acceptance of medical cannabis as a legitimate treatment option.

In contrast, her opposition to the expansion of Medicaid highlights her commitment to fiscal conservatism and her belief in limited government intervention in healthcare. This position has been a point of contention among various stakeholders, as debates over Medicaid expansion continue to be a significant issue in Wisconsin and across the United States.

Felzkowski's leadership roles, both in the Assembly and the Senate, have allowed her to influence policy discussions and advocate for the needs of her district. Her experience as a business owner provides her with a unique perspective on economic issues, which she has applied to her legislative work. Additionally, her involvement in community organizations, such as her past presidency of Tomahawk Main Street, Inc., underscores her commitment to local economic development and community engagement.

In summary, Mary Felzkowski's career as a state legislator is marked by her dedication to her constituents and her active participation in shaping Wisconsin's legislative landscape. Her experiences in business and community service have informed her policy positions and leadership style, making her a significant figure in Wisconsin politics.