Where is Van Orden?

A Derrick Van Orden Town Hall sits empty

Where is our elected representative? Are we being “ghosted?” Why would a leader make themselves hard to reach? Constituents across Wisconsin’s 3rd Congressional District have been raising concerns about Derrick Van Orden’s engagement and accessibility over the last year. Here’s how he’s falling short:

Avoiding in-person events - Van Orden is known for canceling or avoiding in-person town halls, citing fears of "agitators" disrupting events, according to The Wisconsin Independent. Frustration grew in Eau Claire and La Crosse when one event was canceled and another was moved last minute, according to WXOW.

Limited and controlled access - Instead of in-person forums, Van Orden has held virtual town halls where attendees couldn’t ask their own questions. He hasn’t responded to inquiries or addressed concerns about how federal policy really affects our lives. We deserve more from our representative, as this limits real dialogue and falls short of meaningful engagement.

Taking credit while backing cuts - Van Orden has touted additional Medicaid funding in Wisconsin’s state budget, while voting–if not cheering–to undermine healthcare access and coverage. The WI Department of Health Services estimates that over 32,000 in our district alone stand to lose coverage. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel notes how this contradiction has sparked accusations of hypocrisy and political deflection.

Here’s how Democrats are stepping up - Our local candidates have hosted public town hall meetings to discuss issues relevant to the district and provide a platform for constituents to voice their concerns directly. We’re collaborating with grassroots organizations and other groups to focus on protecting Medicaid and SNAP (food assistance). We’re committed to readying for the impact of federal budget cuts–especially on rural hospitals and access to healthcare in Western Wisconsin–and fighting back.

Demand More. Vote Out Van Orden! Help us Take Back the 3rd.