Voters across northern Wisconsin will head to the polls Tuesday, Nov. 3, to choose a new representative for Wisconsin’s 7th Congressional District.

The seat is open following the departure of former representative Tom Tiffany, who is looking to take the governor’s seat.

The contest features Democrat Fred Clark, a forester and former state lawmaker, and Republican Michael Alfonso, a construction background professional and media producer.

Spanning 26 counties, the 7th District is Wisconsin’s largest geographical district. Its economy centers on timber production, agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism.

Candidate profiles are presented in alphabetical order by last name.

Candidate information

Republican Michael Alfonso earned his bachelor’s degree in mathematics from the UW-Madison. Raised in northern Wisconsin, he worked in the construction and concrete industries and produced a nationally syndicated podcast. He advanced from a five-candidate Republican primary in August.

Alfonso’s platform focuses on economic growth, border security, inflation reduction, and constitutional protections. He supports reducing federal spending, lowering tax rates, cutting administrative regulations, backing law enforcement, and supporting educational choice.

He has put a strong emphasis on regulatory relief for northern industries, including forestry, agriculture, and small businesses. He supports expanding timber harvests on federal forestlands, protecting public land access for traditional recreational uses, reducing fuel costs for local transport, and encouraging housing development for young families.

Alfonso earned the primary endorsement of former President Donald Trump. His campaign is also backed by prominent conservative figures, conservative advocacy groups, and regional business leaders.

Democrat Fred Clark earned a bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University and a master’s degree in forestry from UW-Madison. A professional forester, Clark served six years in the Wisconsin State Assembly representing District 81 from 2009 to 2015. He won a three-way Democratic primary in August.

Clark’s focus is on protecting natural resources, funding public education, expanding healthcare access, and supporting working families. He advocates for federal investment in renewable energy, strengthening labor standards, and expanding access to affordable prescription drugs.

Throughout his campaign, he has prioritized sustainable forest management, protecting public land access, and increasing federal funding for rural infrastructure. He supports federal grants to expand high-speed broadband in unserved rural townships, expanding rural healthcare options, and protecting northern watersheds from industrial pollution.

Clark has been endorsed by former 7th District Congressman Dave Obey, current U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan, the Wisconsin State AFL-CIO, the Sierra Club Independent Action, and the Wisconsin Education Association Council.

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Check with your local municipal clerk for more information.