WBA Debate Topic: Avoiding Conflicts of Interest

Let’s talk about conflicts of interest. Here’s what Wisconsin state statute says: “No state public official may use their public position to obtain financial gain or anything of substantial value for the private benefit of themselves or their immediate family.” Governor Evers, you were expected to adhere to that during your term in office. Mr. Michels, your construction company has done the more than a billion dollars in business with the state in contracts. Governor Evers, have you adhered to that law and how? Mr. Michels, how will you adhere to that law if elected governor?

• Here is the state statue on conflicts of interest for state officials.
• Tim Michels says he will divest from his family business if he’s elected governor. Experts say that will be a difficult task. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (Oct. 10, 2022)