Bob Wirch

Robert W. Wirch is a Democratic politician currently serving as a member of the Wisconsin State Senate, representing the 22nd Senate district. He has held this position since 1997 and has a long history of public service, including previous terms in the Wisconsin State Assembly and on the Kenosha County Board of Supervisors. Born in 1943 in Kenosha, Wisconsin, Wirch has dedicated much of his career to addressing the needs of his community and advocating for various legislative initiatives.

Early life and career

Bob Wirch was born on November 16, 1943, in Kenosha, Wisconsin, where he has spent his entire life. He graduated from Mary D. Bradford High School and began working at the American Brass Company, a local manufacturing plant, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. During his employment at American Brass, Wirch became involved in labor activism as a member of the United Steelworkers Local 9322. His commitment to the union led him to ascend to the position of president of the local union and to serve on the executive board of the Wisconsin AFL-CIO. This involvement in labor issues, particularly during a time of significant job losses due to de-industrialization in southeastern Wisconsin, sparked his interest in politics.

In 1985, Wirch announced his candidacy for public office, successfully running for a seat on the Kenosha County Board of Supervisors in April 1986. He served on the county board for eight years, during which he held the position of chairman of the health and human services committee. One of his notable initiatives during this time was the establishment of the Shalom Center, a shelter and food pantry aimed at assisting those in need within the community.

Wirch's political career advanced further in 1992 when he decided to run for the Wisconsin State Assembly after the incumbent, John Antaramian, was elected mayor of Kenosha. Wirch won the Democratic primary against two city council members, securing 45% of the vote. He subsequently triumphed in the general election, receiving 74% of the votes cast in a district that leaned heavily Democratic. He was re-elected in 1994, garnering 70% of the vote.

Legislative service

In 1996, Bob Wirch announced his candidacy for the Wisconsin Senate after the retirement of long-serving Senator Joseph F. Andrea. Wirch received significant support from local Democratic leaders, including state representatives and the mayor of Kenosha, which helped him secure the Democratic nomination without opposition. In the general election, he faced Kenosha attorney Bruno Rizzo and won with 56% of the vote.

Since taking office, Wirch has represented the 22nd Senate district, which encompasses most of Kenosha County. The district has been characterized as competitive, and Wirch has faced opponents in every election since his initial victory. His closest race occurred in 2004 when he received 52% of the vote against Reince Priebus, who later became the chairman of the Republican National Committee.

In 2011, following the election of Republican Governor Scott Walker, Wisconsin experienced significant political upheaval. One of the first actions of the new administration was the introduction of a controversial budget repair bill that aimed to strip state employee unions of their collective bargaining rights. This legislation sparked widespread protests at the Wisconsin State Capitol. In response to the situation, Wirch, along with thirteen other Democratic senators, left the state to deny a quorum and impede the passage of the bill. Despite their efforts, the Republicans managed to pass the legislation by removing budgetary items from the bill.

The passage of the budget repair bill led to a recall campaign against several Democratic senators, including Wirch. A group called Taxpayers to Recall Robert Wirch was formed, and they successfully gathered enough signatures to trigger a recall election. Wirch faced Kenosha attorney Jonathan Steitz in the recall election held on August 16, 2011, and he won with 57% of the vote.

Following the recall, the political landscape shifted dramatically due to a gerrymandering initiative that altered the boundaries of Wirch's district. The changes removed rural areas from the district and incorporated parts of the city of Racine, effectively consolidating Democratic votes in the 22nd Senate district while making neighboring districts more favorable to Republicans. Despite these changes, Wirch successfully ran for re-election in 2012, securing 70% of the vote. He faced no opponents in the subsequent elections of 2016 and 2020.

After the 2012 elections, Wirch was appointed to the influential Joint Finance Committee, which is responsible for the state budget. His appointment was seen as a strategic move, as it followed his support for Chris Larson's election as minority leader. In 2017, Wirch made headlines by being the only Democrat in the state Senate to vote in favor of a substantial tax incentive package aimed at attracting the Foxconn technology company to Wisconsin.

Policy focus and district

Throughout his legislative career, Bob Wirch has focused on a variety of issues that reflect the needs and interests of his constituents in the 22nd Senate district. His background in labor and public service has influenced his policy priorities, particularly in areas related to labor rights, healthcare, and social services. Wirch's tenure on the health and human services committee during his time on the Kenosha County Board has informed his approach to issues such as access to healthcare and support for vulnerable populations.

As a member of the Wisconsin State Senate, Wirch has also been involved in budgetary matters, particularly through his role on the Joint Finance Committee. His participation in this committee allows him to advocate for funding and resources that benefit his district and address the needs of his constituents. His voting record and public statements indicate a commitment to promoting policies that support working families, education, and community development.

The 22nd Senate district, which includes a significant portion of Kenosha County, is characterized by its diverse population and economic landscape. The district has faced challenges related to economic changes and the impacts of de-industrialization, which have shaped Wirch's legislative priorities. His long-standing connection to the community and understanding of local issues have positioned him as a prominent figure in Wisconsin politics, particularly within the Democratic Party.

Overall, Bob Wirch's career reflects a deep commitment to public service and advocacy for the residents of his district. His legislative work continues to evolve in response to the changing political landscape and the needs of his constituents.