Incumbent Republican Representative Rob Swearingen of Rhinelander is being challenged by Minocqua Democrat Kirk Bangstad this fall. The two will be on the ballot in the 34th State Assembly District.
WXPR planned to host a forum including the two candidates, but Bangstad declined to participate.
Instead, WXPR spoke to Swearingen on issues including COVID-19, the statewide mask mandate, PFAS contamination in drinking water, potential metallic mining in the Northwoods, school funding, and broadband expansion.
Hear that conversation by clicking the audio player above.
You can also hear a WXPR forum between the candidates in the 12th State Senate District, Republican Mary Felzkowski and Democrat Ed Vocke.