Brad Pfaff

Brad Pfaff is a Democratic politician currently serving as a member of the Wisconsin State Senate, representing the 32nd Senate district. He has been in office since 2021 and has a background in agriculture policy administration. Pfaff has previously held various positions in both state and federal government, including roles in the Obama administration and as secretary-designee of the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. He was born on December 7, 1967, in La Crosse County, Wisconsin, where he was raised on a family farm.

Early life and career

Brad Pfaff was born and raised in La Crosse County, Wisconsin, where he grew up on his family's farm. This upbringing in a rural environment likely influenced his later focus on agricultural issues in his political career. Pfaff pursued higher education, earning a bachelor's degree in public and environmental administration from the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay. He furthered his studies by obtaining a Master of Public Administration from George Mason University, equipping him with the knowledge and skills necessary for a career in public service.

Pfaff's political career began early when he worked as an aide to state representative Virgil Roberts. This experience provided him with insights into the legislative process and the workings of state government. He later served as a constituent outreach staffer for U.S. Senator Herb Kohl, where he gained further experience in public service and engagement with constituents.

In 1996, Pfaff made his first attempt to enter the political arena by running for the Wisconsin State Assembly in the 94th Assembly district. He received the Democratic Party nomination without opposition in the primary election but was ultimately defeated in the general election by incumbent Republican Michael Huebsch. Following this electoral setback, Pfaff joined the staff of Congressman Ron Kind in 1997, where he worked as a policy advisor focused on rural and agricultural issues for twelve years. During this time, he also contributed to the Southwest Badger Resource Conservation and Development Council, further solidifying his commitment to agricultural and rural development.

Pfaff's next electoral campaign came in 2004 when he sought a seat in the Wisconsin Senate, aiming to fill the vacancy left by Mark Meyer’s appointment to the state Public Service Commission. He won the Democratic primary against Monte L. Jacobson but was narrowly defeated in the general election by Republican Dan Kapanke. Following this loss, Pfaff was elected to the La Crosse County Board of Supervisors in April 2006 and was re-elected in 2008. However, he resigned from the county board in 2009 after receiving a federal appointment.

Legislative service

In 2009, Pfaff was appointed as the Wisconsin executive director for the Farm Service Agency at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). His role involved overseeing agricultural programs and policies at the state level. In 2015, he advanced to the position of Deputy Administrator for Farm Programs at the USDA, where he was responsible for implementing and delivering various crop commodity programs and the Conservation Reserve Program. Pfaff continued to work in this capacity until the end of President Obama's administration in 2017, after which he returned to Congressman Ron Kind's office as deputy chief of staff.

In December 2018, following the election of Governor Tony Evers, Pfaff was nominated to serve as secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. He began his tenure in January 2019, but his appointment required confirmation by the Wisconsin Senate. In November 2019, the Senate voted along party lines to reject his appointment, which led to his subsequent hiring as director of business and rural development within the Wisconsin Department of Administration.

Pfaff's political aspirations continued as he sought election to the Wisconsin Senate in 2020. Following the announcement that incumbent Democratic Senator Jennifer Shilling would not seek re-election, Pfaff announced his candidacy for the 32nd Senate district. He received Shilling's endorsement and won the Democratic primary with a significant majority of the vote. In the general election, Pfaff faced Dan Kapanke, marking a rematch from their previous contest in 2004. He won the election, securing a seat in the Wisconsin State Senate.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Wisconsin State Senate, Pfaff represents the 32nd Senate district, which encompasses most of La Crosse County, along with parts of Vernon County, Monroe County, and all of Crawford County. This district is known for its competitive political landscape, with recent elections being decided by narrow margins. Pfaff's background in agriculture and rural development informs his legislative priorities, which often center around these issues. His experiences in both state and federal government provide him with a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing rural communities in Wisconsin.

Pfaff's policy focus includes advocating for agricultural interests, rural economic development, and addressing the needs of constituents in his district. His previous roles in agricultural administration and his deep roots in the community position him as a knowledgeable advocate for the issues that matter to his constituents. In addition to his work in agriculture, Pfaff has shown an interest in broader economic development initiatives that aim to enhance the quality of life for residents in his district.

In 2022, Pfaff sought to expand his political career by running for the United States House of Representatives to replace retiring Congressman Ron Kind in Wisconsin's 3rd congressional district. However, he was narrowly defeated in the general election by Republican Derrick Van Orden.

Brad Pfaff continues to serve in the Wisconsin State Senate, where he remains engaged in legislative activities and community issues, drawing on his extensive experience in public service and agriculture policy. His career reflects a commitment to serving the people of Wisconsin, particularly in rural areas, and addressing the challenges they face.