Progressive Thinking

This article challenges the notion that today’s political divide is simply about Democrats versus Republicans or right versus wrong. Instead, it emphasizes that the real issue is distinguishing truth from lies. It explores several key issues—such as the economy, immigration, climate change, women’s rights, COVID-19, healthcare, the 2020 election, January 6, and gun control— where some Republican beliefs diverge from the facts. The piece encourages readers to consider the consequences of discovering that what they believed to be true might not be, urging a commitment to truth for the sake of our society’s future.

LAKE GENEVA, WI - It’s essential to step back from the idea that our divisions are just about Democrats versus Republicans or even right versus wrong. The real issue at hand is distinguishing truth from lies. In today’s political climate, there are several beliefs held by some Republicans about critical issues like the economy, immigration, climate change, women’s rights, COVID-19, healthcare, the 2020 election, January 6, and gun control that don’t align with the facts. Let’s examine some of these beliefs, the truth behind them, and consider how one might feel if they found out the things they believed were not true.

The Economy

Belief: Some Republicans believe that cutting taxes for the wealthy and corporations always leads to economic growth and benefits everyone.

Truth: While tax cuts can stimulate short-term economic growth, the long-term effects often increase income inequality and national debt without significantly benefiting the middle class or poor. Studies have shown that wealth does not necessarily "trickle down" to the rest of the population.

Immigration

Belief: Many believe that immigrants, particularly undocumented ones, take jobs away from Americans and significantly burden public resources.

Truth: Immigrants, including undocumented ones, contribute to the economy by filling essential jobs, paying taxes, and starting businesses. Numerous studies indicate that immigrants are less likely to commit crimes than native-born citizens and that they contribute more in taxes than they consume in public services.

Climate Change

Belief: Some Republicans assert that climate change is either a hoax or not significantly influenced by human activities.

Truth: The overwhelming consensus among scientists is that climate change is real, primarily caused by human activities like burning fossil fuels, and poses a severe threat to the planet. Ignoring this reality increases the risk of catastrophic environmental and economic consequences.

Women’s Rights

Belief: There's a belief that limiting access to abortion is about protecting life and doesn’t infringe on women’s rights.

Truth: Restricting access to abortion not only undermines women’s autonomy over their bodies but also disproportionately affects low-income women and women of color. It can lead to dangerous, unregulated procedures and worsens inequalities in healthcare.

COVID-19

Belief: Some believe that COVID-19 was either overblown or that vaccines and masks were unnecessary and ineffective.

Truth: COVID-19 was a deadly pandemic that claimed millions of lives worldwide. Vaccines and masks were critical in reducing the spread of the virus and saving lives. Ignoring or downplaying the seriousness of the virus contributed to unnecessary illness and death.

Healthcare

Belief: Many Republicans hold that a free-market healthcare system without government intervention is the best way to ensure quality care.

Truth: The U.S. spends more on healthcare than any other country, yet has worse health outcomes compared to other developed nations with more government intervention. A market- driven approach can leave many without access to necessary care, particularly those with pre- existing conditions or those who cannot afford high premiums and deductibles.

The 2020 Election

Belief: A significant number of Republicans believe that the 2020 presidential election was stolen or rigged.

Truth: There is no credible evidence to support claims of widespread voter fraud in the 2020 election. Multiple audits, recounts, and court rulings, including by judges appointed by Republican presidents, confirmed that the election was fair and that Joe Biden won.

January 6

Belief: Some believe that the January 6th attack on the Capitol was either justified, not an insurrection, or was perpetrated by left-wing activists.

Truth: The January 6th attack was a violent attempt to overturn a democratic election, instigated by false claims of a stolen election. It was carried out by supporters of then- President Trump, and it resulted in deaths, injuries, and significant damage to one of the symbols of American democracy.

Gun Control

Belief: The belief persists that any form of gun control is a threat to the Second Amendment and that more guns make us safer.

Truth: Research consistently shows that more guns lead to more gun violence and that countries with stricter gun laws have far fewer gun deaths. Sensible gun control measures, like background checks and restrictions on certain types of firearms, do not infringe on Second Amendment rights but can save lives.

The Bigger Question

Now, let’s take a moment to consider: What if you found out that these things you’ve believed so strongly weren’t true? How would that make you feel? Would you feel betrayed by those who provided the misinformation? Would you be angry or confused?

Ahead of our Labor Day celebrations, Sen. Smith highlights the glaringly obvious gap between our legal minimum wage and what we all know it takes to make ends meet – a living wage.

EAU CLAIRE, WI - We all know that Wisconsin’s minimum wage is stuck in the last century. I mean, who can actually afford to live on $7.25 an hour? That’s $1,160 a month at 40 hours a week, which is hardly enough to pay for groceries, let alone rent. According to MIT’s Living Wage Calculator, an actual living wage in Wisconsin for a single adult without children is $20.22.

The last time we saw a bump in the Wisconsin minimum wage was in 2007. In the next year, the federal government increased the minimum wage again by only another 75 cents, outpacing Wisconsin’s increase the year before. That was 16 years ago folks, and counting.

For over 30 years I ran the window cleaning business my father started after he got back from World War II, so I know a thing or two about hard work. Most of all, I learned that paying people a fair wage is more about showing respect for the people who give their time to make your business run. People deserve a living wage, and our state is woefully behind the trend.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average hourly wage in Wisconsin is $22.18 an hour, but one in five Wisconsinites still work for less than $12 an hour. Clearly, our minimum wage is not a viable living wage. Employers are willing to pay more to attract workers, but keeping our minimum wage in step with a living wage provides a backstop for workers and a reality facing Wisconsin employers.

Perhaps the answer has something to do with the makeup of our legislature. Perhaps Republicans in the majority do not support labor in Wisconsin as much as they let on.

How about new laws for workers’ rights to organize a union and address safety concerns in the workplace? According to AFL-CIO’s Death on the Job report, workplace hazards killed or disabled more than 100,000 workers nationwide in 2019. Of those work-related incidents, 5,333 died while on the job. Last year alone, 62 workers died on the job in Wisconsin. Shouldn’t more be done to make work safer for everyone?

Last week I had the opportunity to address the AFL-CIO’s annual conference, and I was proud to celebrate my 100% voting record on pro-labor bills during the last legislative session. Our Democratic Senate Caucus has an excellent voting record overall because we recognize and appreciate every time we get the chance to vote for workers’ rights and improve the conditions for workers from all walks of life.

Even though it was over 13 years ago now, it feels like yesterday when I joined the thousands of concerned citizens at the Capitol to protest the signing of Act 10 into law. At the same time, Republicans enshrined their gerrymandered map locking in a majority in both the Assembly and Senate ever since. Is it any wonder, then, why we haven’t raised our living wage in Wisconsin?

As we take some much-needed time off this coming Labor Day, I hope you will consider finding a brief moment of gratitude in your busy weekend for all of the great labor accomplishments and workers in our state. They fought to create this holiday and make the 40-hour work week a reality. I know I will.

And as soon as our next legislative session starts back up in January, I look forward to making sure others join me in a 100% voting record on behalf of the workers in our state.

Senator Smith represents District 31 in the Wisconsin State Senate. The 31st Senate District includes all of Buffalo, Pepin and Trempealeau counties and portions of Pierce, Dunn, Eau Claire, Jackson and St. Croix counties.

Once upon a time deep divisions grew as many residents embraced misinformation, believing in a stolen election, false conspiracy theories, and denying the severity of the pandemic and climate change. Despite efforts by a few to bridge the gap, the town ultimately fell apart, a stark warning of the destructive power of unchecked falsehoods.

LAKE GENEVA, WI - Once upon a time, in a small town not very far from, where we are now, the people found themselves deeply divided. On one side, a large group believed with all their hearts that the 2020 election had been stolen from their leader. They heard it repeated so often from sources they trusted that they refused to accept the rulings from the courts or the findings from countless audits that proved otherwise. The idea of widespread voter fraud, especially through mail-in ballots, became a cornerstone of their belief system, even though thorough investigations—including those led by their own party—found no evidence to support this claim.

Among these townsfolk were some who embraced a wild and dark tale known as QAnon. They were convinced that their leader was secretly battling a global cabal of elites engaged in unspeakable crimes. This conspiracy theory, despite being thoroughly debunked time and again, spread like wildfire in the hidden corners of the internet, breeding an atmosphere of fear, mistrust, and paranoia.

As the COVID-19 pandemic swept through the town, these same people downplayed the threat. They believed the virus was either a hoax or not nearly as dangerous as the “mainstream” claimed. Vaccines, in their eyes, were not life-saving solutions but dangerous tools of control. Despite overwhelming scientific evidence proving the severity of the pandemic and the safety of the vaccines, they clung to misinformation. And so, as they refused to protect themselves and their neighbors, the virus claimed many lives, leaving grief and loss in its wake.

Climate change, too, was something they dismissed. They ignored the rising temperatures, the intensifying storms, and the frequent floods that began to plague their once peaceful town. To them, climate change was a myth, a fabrication designed to scare them into submission. But as the waters rose and fires ravaged the nearby forests, their denial only hardened, even as their homes and livelihoods were threatened.

They idolized their leader as a self-made billionaire, the epitome of success in their eyes. They believed he had built his empire from nothing, a true rags-to-riches story. But the truth was far different—his wealth was inherited, his business dealings questionable, and his so-called success often propped up by others’ losses. Yet, the myth of his self-made greatness was more comforting than the reality.

Distrust of the media was rampant among them. They saw the press as the enemy, labeling all unfavorable coverage as “fake news.” Any information that contradicted their beliefs was immediately dismissed, no matter how credible the source. They retreated into echo chambers where misinformation thrived, reinforcing their worldview and shutting out anything that might challenge it.

Despite the efforts of a few who tried to reach out, to engage in respectful dialogue and promote critical thinking, the divide only deepened. The townsfolk who believed in the misinformation became more entrenched, seeing any attempt to change their minds as an attack on their identity and values. What began as conversations turned into arguments, which then escalated into open hostility.

As time went on, the town began to fall apart. Neighbors stopped talking to one another. Friends became enemies, and families were torn apart by their differences. The misinformation that had once seemed merely a difference of opinion now had real, devastating consequences. The town’s economy suffered and the environment around them deteriorated, but they were too entrenched in their beliefs to see the role they played in it.

In the end, the town was left fractured and weakened, a mere shadow of its former self. What had once been a thriving community, built on cooperation and mutual respect, had become a battleground of conflicting truths, where facts no longer mattered, and the loudest voices drowned out reason. Those who had tried to bridge the gap were left disheartened, realizing that some minds could not be changed and some divisions could not be healed.

The fate of this once-happy town stands as a stark warning to others: when misinformation is allowed to take root and grow unchecked, it can destroy everything in its path—relationships, communities, and even the very fabric of society. If we do not fight to uphold the truth, if we do not protect the institutions that safeguard it, we risk losing more than just arguments—we risk losing our future.

Senator Smith discusses the JFC Republicans’ decision to hold crucial funding needed to clean up PFAS pollution in our water.

EAU CLAIRE, WI - Over the past few years, you’ve no doubt heard of the expansive PFAS problem contaminating our drinking water and surface waters in Wisconsin and throughout the country. But what exactly are PFAS, and what is being done to address this crisis facing the future of our precious drinking water? Having safe and clean drinking water is a fundamental right and we must do everything possible to solve this immediately.

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, commonly known as PFAS, have been used in countless industrial applications, from firefighting foams to non-stick cookware. While they have made our lives more convenient, PFAS are dangerous primarily because they are highly persistent in the environment and in the human body. These "forever chemicals" resist breaking down, leading to their accumulation in soil, water and living organisms. They can disrupt our endocrine systems, harm liver function and potentially cause cancer. Their widespread use in everyday products, such as non-stick cookware and stain-resistant fabrics, means that exposure is all too common, and the health impacts can be severe and long-lasting. The difficulty in removing them from water sources and the human body makes their threat to public health and the environment all the more difficult to address.

In 2023, Governor Evers signed the budget into law including $125 million in funding to remediate PFAS contamination across the state. Republicans and Gov. Evers agreed to set $125 million aside to address PFAS in the budget. However, Republicans now disagree with the Governor and Democrats in the legislature for using the money for testing and keeping polluters accountable. It’s been over a year now and Republicans on the Joint Finance Committee refuse to utilize these funds.

Wisconsin is already behind states like Minnesota and Michigan that have started widespread groundwater PFAS detection. The people of Wisconsin deserve better than to have their health and the environment jeopardized by unchecked industrial pollution and inactive government.

PFAS have already been detected in over 120 communities across the state, impacting approximately 2.5 million Wisconsinites, which is about 42% of the entire state. The DNR has done an excellent job with the authority they have to help municipalities deal with PFAS contaminations. However, without additional state guidance and funding, municipalities are left implementing a patchwork of remediation strategies.

Thankfully, municipalities like the City of Eau Claire have been proactive in protecting our community from PFAS by acting immediately. For instance, the Eau Claire City-County Health Department is currently partnering with researchers from UW-Eau Claire to offer a limited number of free private well water tests for PFAS. Also, the construction of a PFAS removal facility in Eau Claire has finally broken ground and is expected to be completed by 2026.

In the absence of Republican leadership, municipalities like Eau Claire are taking great strides towards safe drinking water in our area. However, these efforts will not be enough for the residents of greater Wisconsin. Why should these other cities be in limbo when there are resources waiting to be dispersed?

Wisconsinites expect our government to prioritize their health and their lives over the special interests of PFAS polluters. Water pollution is not a political discussion, and people should be able to drink a glass of water with no worries about their wellbeing.

The Republicans’ decision to hold crucial funding is dangerous and irresponsible. Their decision affects everyone, from our families to our friends to our children. They need to be held accountable for the damage they are doing and must release the PFAS funds now.

Senator Smith represents District 31 in the Wisconsin State Senate. The 31st Senate District includes all of Buffalo, Pepin and Trempealeau counties and portions of Pierce, Dunn, Eau Claire, Jackson and St. Croix counties.

Senator Smith encourages everyone to find ways to support our young learners as they head back into the classroom.

EAU CLAIRE, WI - As summer fades away and the new academic year begins, the ritual of going back to school takes on renewed importance. I remember growing up and feeling the flutter of anxiety as I gathered everything I needed to head back to school.  Seeing “old” friends or the thought of getting to make new ones, or getting new clothes to wear and figuring out what to eat for lunch. That can be a lot for young learners and it’s important we do all we can to support them.

For students, it’s a season of new beginnings, fresh challenges and endless possibilities. For adults—be they parents, guardians, or community members—this is a great time to reflect on how we might do more to contribute to the success of our students.

Going back to school is a chance for each student to start anew and reimagine what’s possible in the year ahead. The reality is that we are all responsible for fostering social growth, emotional resilience and life-long learning skills. Adults play a crucial role in this process, and their support can make the difference between a student merely surviving the school year and truly thriving.

How kids get back to school is more than just an academic exercise. It’s an essential part of a young person’s development. Our schools create structured opportunities for students to engage in critical thinking, problem-solving and collaboration—skills that are vital in today’s world.

On the other hand, the challenges that come with returning to school can be overwhelming for some students. The transition from summer break to the structured environment of the classroom can be jarring. Students may feel anxious about academic pressures, social dynamics and extracurricular commitments they face. This is where adult support becomes so important. By actively engaging in their children’s education, adults can provide the stability, encouragement and guidance students need to navigate these challenges successfully.

In addition to these direct forms of support, adults can also contribute to student success by being involved in the broader school community. Volunteering at school events, participating in parent-teacher associations, or simply attending school meetings are all ways to demonstrate a commitment to education. Such involvement sends a powerful message to students that their education is important and adults around them are invested in their success.

Moreover, adults can support student success by establishing routines to promote good study habits. This includes setting aside specific times for homework, ensuring children have a quiet and comfortable place to study, and encouraging regular reading. Consistent routines help students develop discipline and time management skills, which are essential for academic success. Adults should also be mindful of the need for balance, ensuring that students have time for physical activity, social interactions, and rest, all of which contribute to overall well-being.

Parents shouldn’t hesitate to reach out to teachers to discuss their child’s progress, seek advice or to collaborate on strategies to support their learning. Similarly, students should be encouraged to speak up about their concerns, whether they are struggling with a particular subject, feeling overwhelmed by their workload or facing social challenges at school. When adults listen to students and take their concerns seriously, they help create an environment where students feel valued and supported.

Here are just a few ways you can help support our schools:

·         Adopt-a-Backpack for an Eau Claire Area School District student in need by emailing This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 715-852-3000.

·         Donate to the Eau Claire Public Schools Foundation Ways to Give | Eau Claire Public Schools Foundation (ecpsfound.org)

·         Donate to the CFAUSD Foundation CFAUSD Foundation (cfausd-foundation.com).

·         Donate to Menomonie School Angel Fund Angel Fund - School District of the Menomonie Area (sdmaonline.com).

As the new school year begins, let's remember that the journey of education is not one that students should undertake alone. We can all find a way to support students in our community to help them navigate the challenges ahead and seize the opportunities that come with going back to school. How about you?  What can you do this year to help a student in your life?

Senator Smith represents District 31 in the Wisconsin State Senate. The 31st Senate District includes all of Buffalo, Pepin and Trempealeau counties and portions of Pierce, Dunn, Eau Claire, Jackson and St. Croix counties.