Kitchen Table Issues Take Center Stage at the DNC in Chicago

State Senator Dianne Hesselbein joins UpNorthNews Radio to discuss the key topics and a challenge to educate and engage Wisconsin voters

It’s a reflection on the idea that your kitchen table is a hub for daily conversations. This includes talking about the “kitchen table” issues impacting everyone, and taking center stage at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago. Pat Kreitlow, host of UpNorthNews Radio, and State Senator Dianne Hesselbein discuss how the convention is highlighting critical issues like access to health care, gun control, and education. She believes these topics resonate deeply with voters.

Hesselbein starts by bringing up the importance of reproductive rights, noting the stark differences between the parties. 

“We have to trust women and doctors to make the best decisions for their health,” she says, while warning of the dire consequences should Republicans push further restrictions on abortion access.

Engaging with voters across the state, Hesselbein tells Kreitlow, she has found many are not aware of the implications of Republican-led initiatives. And even more residents don’t know about Project 2025.

“There is a need for continuing education on these issues,” Hesselbein says. “And particularly as it pertains to those everyday concerns like school lunches and Medicaid expansion.”

And despite these issues, Hesselbein is optimistic about the future. 

She’s confident about the efforts of Democratic leaders to find ways to connect with voters, especially young people and new parents. 

And she wants to amplify what matters to every Wisconsinite when you sit around your own kitchen table.